Studying at York
Genes & genomes in populations & evolution - BIO00056I
Module summary
The module examines evolution at the level of genes, genomes, whole organisms through to behaviour. The module begins by introducing the processes that affect evolution, the change of allele frequencies, in natural and experimental populations ranging from microbes to humans, including the evolution of behaviours such as eusociality and cooperative behaviour. In the later half of the module we will explore how population processes change genomes both within and between species and discuss the resulting macroevolutionary patterns.
Module will run
| Occurrence | Teaching period |
|---|---|
| A | Autumn Term 2022-23 to Summer Term 2022-23 |
Module aims
The module examines evolution at the level of genes, genomes, whole organisms through to behaviour. The module begins by introducing the processes that affect evolution, the change of allele frequencies, in natural and experimental populations ranging from microbes to humans, including the evolution of behaviours such as eusociality and cooperative behaviour. In the later half of the module we will explore how population processes change genomes both within and between species and discuss the resulting macroevolutionary patterns. Most of these concepts will be explored using a range of examples as well as simple mathematical models. The material is supported by workshops. Embedded in all aspects of the module is the aim to develop experimental design and problem solving skills and to practise data analysis.
Module learning outcomes
1. Understand and describe key evolutionary processes that affect allele frequencies in populations
2. Understand and describe evolutionary changes in genomes within and between species
3. Understand and describe key evolutionary processes that affect behavioural strategies and macroevolution
4. Synthesise ideas from across the module into coherent arguments.
5. Understand experimental design, data collection and analysis of data and be able to design simple experiments related to LO1-3.
6. Apply simple evolutionary models to problems related to LO1-3.
Module content
This module builds on Genetics & Evolution: principles of heritability, basic population genetics, history of life on earth
It will provide useful skills and knowledge to enable students to better participate in Advanced topics in Evolution and Genetics in Ecology, Genes and Development, Human and Medical Genetics, Advanced topics in Ecology, Ecology field course
Indicative assessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Special assessment rules
None
Indicative reassessment
| Task | % of module mark |
|---|---|
| Online Exam -less than 24hrs (Centrally scheduled) | 100 |
Module feedback
Cohort-level feedback will be provided on performance in closed exams and made available via the VLE. Marks for open assessments will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Individual comments will be added to your script and/or on separate summary feedback document. Histograms of module marks will be posted on the notice boards outside the Biology Student Services office. Individual marks will be made available to you and your supervisor via e:vision. Exam scripts will be made available at the end of either the Spring or Summer terms. You should take the opportunity to discuss your marks and feedback with your supervisor.
During the teaching of the module you will receive feedback that may be at a whole class or individual level. Forms of feedback may include: model answers and discussion of workshop questions, summaries of performance in practicals, VLE-based quizzes, individual spoken comments during workshops, individual written comments on formative work.
Indicative reading
These are accessible through the VLE module site.