Courses & Units

Biology of Animals KZA161

Introduction

KZA161 Biology of Animals provides an introduction to the scientific study of animals. Students are introduced to animal diversity through studying the major invertebrate and vertebrate phyla with an emphasis on Australian examples. We consider the structural and functional characteristics of each group from an evolutionary perspective, with a focus on understanding relationships between structure and function. Lectures in comparative animal physiology introduce students to the fundamental principles underlying animal life, and provide a functional basis for understanding animals' physiological adaptions to diverse environments. There is a strong emphasis on developing skills in practical zoology and scientific writing. KZA161 is offered in attending mode. Face-to-face practical sessions are offered in both Hobart and Launceston - active participation in these weekly practical sessions is required to pass the unit. This unit is delivered in a blended style with material delivered both face to face and online. The final practical assessment is held in week 14 and students are required to attend in person. There is no final exam in the formal examination period in this unit.

Summary

Unit name Biology of Animals
Unit code KZA161
Credit points 12.5
College/School College of Sciences and Engineering
School of Natural Sciences
Discipline Biological Sciences|TIA - Research Institute
Coordinator Associate Professor Ashley Edwards
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Introductory

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Hobart Semester 1 On-Campus International Domestic
Launceston Semester 1 On-Campus International Domestic

Key

On-campus
Off-Campus
International students
Domestic students
Note

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Units are offered in attending mode unless otherwise indicated (that is attendance is required at the campus identified). A unit identified as offered by distance, that is there is no requirement for attendance, is identified with a nominal enrolment campus. A unit offered to both attending students and by distance from the same campus is identified as having both modes of study.

Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 1 26/2/2024 22/3/2024 15/4/2024 2/6/2024

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2024 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2024 will be available from the 1st October 2023. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Describe the diversity in the animal kingdom and the relevant principles that underpin its diversification and classification.
  • Explain how structure and function are related in animals and how they are relevant to survival.
  • Explain fundamental physical principles governing animal physiology.
  • Demonstrate practical skills in the examination and interpretation of specimens and results.
  • Correctly and safely use equipment relevant to biology laboratories.

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
010915 $1,118.00 $1,118.00 not applicable $2,596.00

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

KZA151 AND KZA150 AND JFA101 AND JFA102

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

2 x 50 minute lectures (prerecorded and broken into smaller vignettes) and a 3-hr practical session per week. 

AssessmentOnline quiz (3%)|Online quiz (3%)|Lab Assessment (4%)|CLOSED BOOK Physiology assessment (10%)|Introductory Scientific Writing Task (10%)|Mid semester test (15%)|open book practical assessment (25%)|CLOSED BOOK End of semester test (30%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Integrated Principles of Zoology (Hickman et al), old editions and second hadn copies are a good option.

Recommended

Campbell’s Biology (Urry et al), old editions and second hadn copies are a good option.

LinksBooktopia textbook finder

The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.