Course coordinator
Dr Laura Grogan
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- Gatton
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- Gatton
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
An investigation into the unique anatomy, physiology, natural history and management of Australian marsupials and monotremes. 13 weeks lecture and online learning, 1 day compulsory practical session.
Evidence of immunity to Q fever is mandatory for this course. Refer to UQ Student Immunisation Requirements for more information.
External mode of study is restricted and will require permission to enrol. To request permission email environment@enquire.uq.edu.au with the course information and include relevant supporting evidence.
Eligibility criteria: 1. Students must show evidence that travel time of greater than 90 minutes or 100km from Gatton Campus and is reflected in mySI-net: Acceptable Evidence advice that MySi-net record is up to date; 2. Students must show evidence that work commitments restrict their ability to attend regular practicals: Acceptable Evidence a letter from employer 3. Students with core course timetable clashes: Acceptable Evidence a copy of correspondence from Science My Timetable indicating clash is unable to be resolved. Clashes with elective courses will not be considered. 4. Students unable to provide this evidence will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Refer to UQ Student Immunisation Requirements for more information.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Undergraduate level (1st and 2nd year) of animal anatomy and physiology and zoology.
Recommended prerequisites
We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:
AGRC1020, ANIM1026, ANIM2051, ANIM2052, ANIM2055
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ANIM2043 and ANIM7043 (co-taught).
Restrictions
Restricted to students who meet mandatory immunisation requirements.
External offering requires permission to enrol.
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Dr Laura Grogan
Associate Professor Diana Fisher
Associate Professor Steve Johnston
Dr Michaela Blyton
Associate Professor Deanne Whitworth
Adjunct Professor David Blyde
Dr Lyndal Hulse
Dr Angela Lees
Associate Professor Al Mucci
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Aims and outcomes
This course aims to provide students with a fundamental and extended knowledge of marsupial and monotreme biology through a selected coverage of modules related to taxonomy, anatomy, physiology, behavioural ecology, conservation and management.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Understand current concepts in marsupial and monotreme taxonomy and identify species to the level of order and family.
LO2.
Comprehend the unique musculo-skeletal system of the marsupials and monotremes and how this contrasts with eutherian species.
LO3.
Comprehend the unique reproductive biology of the marsupials and monotremes and how this contrasts with eutherian species.
LO4.
Understand the unique aspects of marsupial and monotreme chromosomes and genetics.
LO5.
Compare and contrast the nutrition and digestive anatomy and physiology of marsupials, monotremes and eutherian species.
LO6.
Understand the methods of communication and social behaviours of marsupials and monotremes.
LO7.
Develop an appreciation of the key diseases affecting monotreme and marsupials.
LO8.
Have a greater awareness of how marsupials and monotremes thermoregulate and analyse the potential effects of future climate change on their physiological niche.
LO9.
Gain a greater appreciation of the historical and current issues associated with marsupial and monotreme conservation and management.
LO10.
Understand the importance of applied genetics for marsupial conservation.
LO11.
Produce an annotated bibliography in order to conduct an update edit of a published book chapter.
LO12.
Participate in the dissection of a monotreme and marsupial to identify the digestive, reproductive and musculo-skeletal systems.
LO13.
Gain an informed understanding of the significance of monotremes and marsupials to indigenous community.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Annotated Bibliography & Book Chapter Edit Update | 20% |
29/08/2025 1:00 pm |
| Examination |
In-semester Exam - Modules 1 to 6
|
30% |
26/09/2025 2:00 pm |
| Creative Production/ Exhibition | Marsupial and Monotreme Literature Review | 20% |
17/10/2025 1:00 pm |
| Examination |
End of Semester Exam - Modules 7 to 12
|
30% |
End of Semester Exam Period 8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
Annotated Bibliography & Book Chapter Edit Update
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
29/08/2025 1:00 pm
Task description
The text “The Koala” in the Australian Natural History series provides a general overview of koala biology but was published in 1999. For this assignment, it will be your job to act as book editor to help update the reproductive biology section of chapter 5 “Behaviour, Sociality and Life Cycle” of the text by compiling an annotated bibliography of the current literature relevant to this chapter. You should find and select the 10 most relevant journal articles to annotate. Website information is not acceptable unless it is part of an online journal article. NOTE - only focus on the reproductive biology section.
Choose your journal articles carefully to present the most relevant and up to date information. As part of your editorial role, you will also need to indicate in the text of the book chapter, where you would insert this new information and whether any new figures or tables should be added for clarification. For this later exercise, it would be best to photocopy or “scan in” the relevant pages of the chapter and then by hand or using Adobe Acrobat or Acrobat Pro insert the reference. You will also need to provide any new text for your new information which can also be either handwritten or typed using Adobe Acrobat Pro Software. The location of the reference in the text can be indicated by [1], where [1] would refer to the number of the reference in your annotated reference list. I have provided on the ANIM3049/7043 blackboard website a PDF entitled “What is an Annotated Bibliography”. It is vital that you read this document carefully in terms of how the bibliography should be set out. This document also gives an example of an entry for an annotated bibliography; follow this example EXACTLY when submitting your assignment but please ensure that you use the APA system when referencing.
Also note and include – “the key” used in the example given in the PDF document. Please note it is not acceptable to simply include an exact word for word abstract of the journal article you have discovered as your annotation; if you do, this will quickly be detected by the turn-it-in software and treated as plagiarism. A PDF of the book chapter can also be downloaded from the BB website.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI and MT tools.
Submission guidelines
Online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
In-semester Exam - Modules 1 to 6
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
26/09/2025 2:00 pm
Task description
Short Essay Format - 1 question per module. Students will be required to answer 6 questions in total. Content from Module 1 to 6 will be covered.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Marsupial and Monotreme Literature Review
- Mode
- Oral, Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
- Category
- Creative Production/ Exhibition
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
17/10/2025 1:00 pm
Task description
Students will be asked to construct a mini-lecture (15 mins) based on any topic area of monotreme or marsupial biology that is covered in the course.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Online submission by Turnitin only by the due date and time. No hard copy or assignment cover sheets are required. Submission via email is not accepted.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 28 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
See the Additional assessment information section below for information relating to extension applications.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (the assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date.
For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period).
End of Semester Exam - Modules 7 to 12
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
Task description
Short Essay Format - 1 question per module. Students will be required to answer 6 questions in total. Modules 7 to 12 will be assessed.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | No calculators permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdle
In order to pass this course, you must meet the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
You must obtain 50% or more in the combined available marks of the In-semester exam and End of Semester exam.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to the UQ website for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Applications for Extensions to Assessment Due Dates
Read the information contained in the following links carefully before submitting an application for extension to assessment due date.
For guidance on applying for an extension, information is available here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension
For the policy relating to extensions, information is available here (Part D): https://policies.uq.edu.au/document/view-current.php?id=184
Please note the University's requirements for medical certificates here: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/uq-policies-and-rules/requirements-medical-certificates
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Library resources are available on the UQ Library website.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (28 Jul - 03 Aug) |
Lecture |
An Introduction to Marsupials and Monotremes Dr Laura Grogan |
Week 2 (04 Aug - 10 Aug) |
Lecture |
Marsupial Behaviour A/Prof Diana Fisher |
Week 3 (11 Aug - 17 Aug) |
Lecture |
Marsupial and Monotreme Musculoskeletal System Dr Laura Grogan |
Week 4 (18 Aug - 24 Aug) |
Lecture |
Monotreme Reproduction A/Prof Stephen Johnston |
Week 5 (25 Aug - 31 Aug) |
Lecture |
Marsupial Reproduction 1 A/Prof Stephen Johnston |
Week 6 (01 Sep - 07 Sep) |
Lecture |
Marsupial Reproduction 2 A/Prof Stephen Johnston |
Week 7 (08 Sep - 14 Sep) |
Lecture |
Marsupial and Monotreme Digestive Anatomy and Physiology Dr Michaela Blyton |
Practical |
Dissection - 1 day weekend Practical Class Dr Laura Grogan A one day weekend dissection practical will be be run Saturday 13/9/2024 at Gatton campus, 8106-135 - John Mahon Building, Wet Lab. |
|
Week 8 (15 Sep - 21 Sep) |
Lecture |
Marsupial and Monotreme Chromosomes, Sex Determination and Genomics A/Prof Deanne Whitworth |
Week 9 (22 Sep - 28 Sep) |
Lecture |
Marsupial and Monotreme Disease Adj Prof David Blyde |
Week 10 (06 Oct - 12 Oct) |
Lecture |
Marsupial and Monotreme Applied Conservation Genetics Dr Lyndal Hulse |
Week 11 (13 Oct - 19 Oct) |
Lecture |
Marsupial and Monotreme Thermoregulation and Metabolism Dr Angela Lees |
Week 12 (20 Oct - 26 Oct) |
Lecture |
Australian Marsupial Extinction and Conservation A/Prof Diana Fisher |
Week 13 (27 Oct - 02 Nov) |
Lecture |
An Indigenous Perspective on Monotremes and Marsupials Adj A/Prof Al Mucci and Guest |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.