Evolution

Year
1
Academic year
2019-2020
Code
01000850
Subject Area
Biology
Language of Instruction
Portuguese
Mode of Delivery
Face-to-face
Duration
SEMESTRIAL
ECTS Credits
3.0
Type
Compulsory
Level
1st Cycle Studies

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable

Teaching Methods

The theoretical-practical classes will be taught throughout the semester, being also planned a field trip. Students will also be organized into groups that will be given a small project about evolution, which must be submitted as a written report. Discussions of scientific papers on proposed themes will be performed. Tutorial support in clarifying doubts, implementation, preparation, presentation and defense of the project

Learning Outcomes

This course introduces the concept that all biological phenomena derive from evolutionary relationships

skills:

1. Recognize the concepts, principles and paradigms of evolution towards a correct characterization and understanding of all biological phenomena.

2. Ability to analyze, synthesize and interpret biological diversity in an evolutionary context using appropriate methodologies and techniques.

3. Synthesize and process biological information in a meaningful and relevant manner, using appropriate methodologies and techniques.

4. Capacity to acquire knowledge independently Develop ability to process interpreting biological information using relevant bibliographical sources (and others) as well as take concern with self-learning, continuous improvement and quality of the work.

5. Present results based on appropriate analytical tools

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. Patterns and the history of life

1.1 The origin of the Sun and Planets

1.2 Plate tectonics and the geologic time scale

1.3 Carbon 14 and Uranium-Lead methods.

1.4 The tree of life: Phylogeny and Classification

1.5 The evolutionary lines in the fossil record 

1.6 The history of life on Earth

1.7 The Geography of Evolution

2. Evolutionary processes in populations and species

2.1 Variation

2.2 The origin of the genetic variation

2.3 Population structure and genetic drift

2.4 Natural selection and adaptation

2.5 Species and speciation

2.6 The evolution of genetic systems

2.7 Molecular Evolution

3. Macroevolution

3.1 Development and Evolution

3.2 Patterns and processes of macroevolution

3.3 The evolution of biological diversity

3.4 Human evolution and variation

Head Lecturer(s)

Paulo Jorge Gama Mota

Assessment Methods

Assessement
Report of a seminar or field trip: 10.0%
Research work: 20.0%
Exam: 70.0%

Bibliography

1) Strickberger, M. W. Evolution.4th Edition, Jones & Bartlett Publishers, Machassusetts, (2008).

2) Futuyma, D. J. Evolution. Sinauer Associates, Massachusetts, (2013).

3) Benton, M. J. Vertebrate Paleontology. 2nd Edition, Blackwell Science Ltd, London, (2002).

4) Stanley, S. S. Earth System History W. H. Freeman and Company, New York, (1999)