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Unit of study_
BIOL1006: Life and Evolution
2025 unit information
Biology is an immensely diverse science. Biologists study life at all levels, from the fundamental building blocks (genes, proteins) to whole ecosystems in which myriads of species interact. Evolution is the unifying concept that runs through the life sciences, from the origin and diversification of life to understanding behaviour, to dealing with disease. Evolution through natural selection is the framework in biology in which specific details make sense. This unit explores how new species continue to arise while others go extinct and discusses the role of mutations as the raw material on which selection acts. It explains how information is transferred between generations through DNA, RNA and proteins, transformations which affect all aspects of biological form and function. Science builds and organises knowledge of life and evolution in the form of testable hypotheses. You will participate in inquiry-led practical classes investigating single-celled organisms and the diversity of form and function in plants and animals. By doing this unit of study, you will develop the ability to examine novel biological systems and understand the complex processes that have shaped those systems.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Science
| Study level | Undergraduate |
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| Academic unit | Life and Environmental Sciences Academic Operations |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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None |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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BIOL1001 or BIOL1911 or BIOL1991 or BIOL1906 or BIOL1996 |
| Assumed knowledge:
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HSC Biology. Students who have not completed HSC Biology (or equivalent) are strongly advised to take the Biology Bridging Course (offered in February) |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Explain evolution as the unifying theory in biology and articulate the temporal and spatial scale of evolutionary processes.
- LO2. Describe genetic information transfer from one generation to the next, including gene function, mutation, and inheritance patterns.
- LO3. Explain the central dogma (DNA to RNA to protein) and how gene expression influences biological form and function.
- LO4. Apply principles of inheritance, including Mendelian genetics, to solve genetic problems and understand the regulation of inherited traits.
- LO5. Demonstrate and illustrate the complexity and diversity of life and the commonality of life systems.
- LO6. Propose and test hypotheses to explain biological phenomena, analyzing quantitative data to evaluate patterns and explanations.
- LO7. Communicate biological explanations effectively in various formats to diverse audiences.
- LO8. Work independently and collaboratively to explore and appreciate biological diversity and complexity.
- LO9. Integrate and demonstrate understanding of First Nations perspectives to broaden the understanding of the diversity of life on earth, fostering an inclusive approach to biological concepts and connecting traditional knowledge with contemporary biology.
Unit availability
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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