Module Details |
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module. |
Title | Oceanography, Plankton and Climate | ||
Code | ENVS245 | ||
Coordinator |
Prof J Sharples Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences Jonathan.Sharples@liverpool.ac.uk |
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Year | CATS Level | Semester | CATS Value |
Session 2020-21 | Level 5 FHEQ | First Semester | 15 |
Aims |
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The module will provide a multi-disciplinary view of how ocean physics, microbiology, chemistry and plankton ecology operate in different ocean environments, explain how Earth's climate is affected by the plankton, and show how plankton ecosystems are responding to a changing climate. The aim is then to use this multi-disciplinary framework to develop skills in setting sensible hypotheses, numeracy, problem-solving and written communication. Throughout the module material will connect to the research currently being carried out by staff, using research results and research tools to illustrate key concepts and formulate methods to test hypotheses. |
Learning Outcomes |
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(LO1) Students will gain a broad understanding of how different plankton communities arise in different oceanic regimes, and how that ultimately structures food chains to larger marine animals and effects Earth's climate. |
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(LO2) Students will be able to compare quantitatively the scales of different processes, and critically assess their relative importance for life in the ocean. |
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(LO3) Students will strengthen, and acquire new, skills in quantifying physical-biological drivers of ecosystems. |
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(LO4) Students will learn the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach to marine biology and gain experience in solving novel problems. |
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(LO5) Students will acquire knowledge of key concepts in physical and biological oceanography. |
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(LO6) Students will learn the importance of understanding the assumptions behind key theories in oceanography. |
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(LO7) Students will learn how to frame and test hypotheses using appropriate data and methods. |
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(LO8) Students will develop skills in written communication of science. |
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(S1) Problem solving skills |
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(S2) Numeracy |
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(S3) Numeracy (application of) manipulation of numbers, general mathematical awareness and its application in practical contexts (e.g. measuring, weighing, estimating and applying formulae) |
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(S4) Problem solving/ critical thinking/ creativity analysing facts and situations and applying creative thinking to develop appropriate solutions. |
Syllabus |
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Topics will be drawn from: All lecture material and additional key reading resources will be posted online. Timetabled workshops will be used to develop and practice problem-solving and numeracy. |
Teaching and Learning Strategies |
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Teaching Method 1 - Lecture Teaching Method 2 - Online material |
Teaching Schedule |
Lectures | Seminars | Tutorials | Lab Practicals | Fieldwork Placement | Other | TOTAL | |
Study Hours |
10 2 |
12 | |||||
Timetable (if known) | |||||||
Private Study | 138 | ||||||
TOTAL HOURS | 150 |
Assessment |
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EXAM | Duration | Timing (Semester) |
% of final mark |
Resit/resubmission opportunity |
Penalty for late submission |
Notes |
Final exam in online open-book format There is a resit opportunity. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1 | 90 minutes | 50 | ||||
CONTINUOUS | Duration | Timing (Semester) |
% of final mark |
Resit/resubmission opportunity |
Penalty for late submission |
Notes |
Assessment 1: report There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :1 | 5 - 6 sides A4 (c. | 50 |
Recommended Texts |
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Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module. |