Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 2, 2025 (28/07/2025 - 22/11/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
The course will cover animal diversity & evolution, from primitive metazoans to vertebrates. It describes the fantastic diversity of animal and life histories in an evolutionary and phylogenetic context. Students will become familiar with body form & function, & life history characteristics of the major groups of animals.
Zoology is the scientific study of animals, including their diversity and evolution, development, structure, physiology, and behaviour. BIOL2204 examines animal life from all environments, including marine, freshwater andﾠterrestrial, and will have a focus on Australian animals.
The course will cover animal diversity and evolution, from basal metazoans to vertebrates, comparison of body form and function, and the diversity of life history strategies found across different animal groups. The great diversity of animal life will be put into an evolutionary and phylogenetic context.ﾠ
The course contentﾠis broken into modules, each dealing with a different phylogenetically related group.ﾠ In the first half of the course each module looks in detail at one invertebrate phylum. The second half of the course focusses on vertebrate animals, where each module looks in detail at one of the major body functions and compares this function across the different vertebrate groups.
Practical classes alternate between interactive workshops and laboratory classes. Each uses inquiry based learning to discover characteristics of and relationships between different groups of animals. Students will identify and sort animals into taxonomic groups from field collected samples using these acquired skills. Workshops/tutorials will engage students in applying what they have learned to real scenarios related to managing wildlife and identifying unknown species.
Course requirements
Assumed background
It will be assumed that students are familar with all material covered in the pre-requiste courses BIOL1030 Biodiversity and the Environment,ﾠand BIOL1040 Cells to Organisms.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
BIOL1030
Recommended prerequisites
We recommend completing the following courses before enrolling in this one:
BIOL1020+BIOL1040
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ZOOL2028 or ZOOL2029
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Professor Peter Mumby
Professor Sassan Asgari
Associate Professor Ian Tibbetts
Dr Ben Mos
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Aims and outcomes
The course aims to introduce:
- animal diversity and evolution - from basal metazoans to vertebrates
- the comparison of body form and function
- modes of support, locomotion, feeding and reproductive strategies
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Describe the major animal phyla and there evolutionary relationships
LO2.
Apply the basic animal plans to unfamiliar animals and understand how they are formed
LO3.
Evaluate the different ways different groups of animals move, acquire food, respire, maintain fluid balance and reproduce based upon their anatomical structure and function.
LO4.
Analyse the diversity of animal life-history and reproductive strategies based on structure, function and habitat of animals.
LO5.
Identify an animal to phylum and order and know how to access information to identify animals to lower taxonomic levels.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz |
Post lab/workshop quizzes
|
50% |
1) Quiz 1: 14/08/2025 2:00 pm 2) Quiz 2: 28/08/2025 2:00 pm 3) Quiz 3: 11/09/2025 2:00 pm 4) Quiz 4: 25/09/2025 2:00 pm 5) Quiz 5: 16/10/2025 2:00 pm 6) Quiz 6: 30/10/2025 2:00 pm |
| Examination |
End of Semester exam
|
50% |
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
Post lab/workshop quizzes
- Online
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
1) Quiz 1: 14/08/2025 2:00 pm
2) Quiz 2: 28/08/2025 2:00 pm
3) Quiz 3: 11/09/2025 2:00 pm
4) Quiz 4: 25/09/2025 2:00 pm
5) Quiz 5: 16/10/2025 2:00 pm
6) Quiz 6: 30/10/2025 2:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
Students will be assessed via a short quiz each fortnight. The quiz will cover content covered in the two weeks leading up to the quiz.
The highest marks from 5 of the 6 quizzes will contribute towards your final grade.
Quizzes will primarily cover material learned in the in-person classes and preparation reading, but will also include some content from the online learning where it is directly relevant to practical class activities. Each quiz that contributes to your final grade is worth 10% of your final grade.
Quiz questions will be drawn from a pool of questions, such that each student will receive a different set of quiz questions.
Quizzes are a set duration (40 min) and will be due within 48h after completing the in-person class in weeks 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 13.
Quiz 1: Opens 1pm 12/08/25 and due 2pm 14/08/25 (Week 3)
Quiz 2: Opens 1pm 26/08/25 and due 2pm 28/08/25 (Week 5)
Quiz 3: Opens 1pm 09/09/25 and due 2pm 11/09/25 (Week 7)
Quiz 4: Opens 1pm 23/09/25 and due 2pm 25/09/25 (Week 9)
Quiz 5: Opens 1pm 14/10/25 and due 2pm 16/10/25 (Week 11)
Quiz 6: Opens 1pm 28/10/25 and due 2pm 30/10/25 (Week 13)
Submission guidelines
Quizzes will be available online via the Inspera assessment platform and submitted within Inspera platform.
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.
Marks from the best 5 out of 6 quizzes count towards the final grade.
Only students who miss more than one quiz may apply for an extension.
Late submission
You will receive a mark of 0 if this assessment is submitted late.
Late submission of quizzes is not accepted due to the 48h window of availability.
End of Semester exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Activity/ Performance, Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 50%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
8/11/2025 - 22/11/2025
- Learning outcomes
- L01, L02, L03, L04, L05
Task description
Covers material covered in entire course.
This is an invigilated, on campus exam.
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 | Any calculator permitted |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - specified written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Inspera |
| 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
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 45% or more on the End of Semester Exam.
ﾠ
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
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Statement
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.
Inspera Assessment.
Assessment in BIOL2204 will occur using the software platform called Inspera. The assessment item(s) include non-invigilated/invigilated on-campus assessment/exam/quiz and students will complete these using their own device. Further details, including an introduction to Inspera functionality, practice opportunities, and where to go for support, will be provided in the Blackboard site for this course in Week 1 of the semester.
If you don't have a suitable device for your assessment, please go to the Library site for information on Short-Term Laptop loans.
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
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
Other learning materials will be posted on the BIOL2204 Black Board 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 |
|---|---|---|
Not scheduled |
No student involvement (Breaks, information) |
NOTE ON COURSE STRUCTURE The course structure and content for BIOL2204 in 2025 is similar to recent years, but very different to years prior to 2022. This course is a mix of online learning and in-person practical classes. Students are expected to complete approximately 3 hours online learning per week (plus personal study time) as well as the in-person class. The online learning modules are designed to make your learning more interactive and effective than a traditional lecture format. The in-person practical classes will be held for 2-3 hours per week on campus as per your timetable. Here you will do hands on activities and work alongside your tutors and lecturers in the laboratory or in workshop-style groups. Practical classes are great places to bring questions you have about the online learning. An online discussion board is also available for your support. |
Week 1 (28 Jul - 03 Aug) |
Team Based Learning |
1. Welcome to BIOL2204 A not-to-be-missed class where you will learn about essential course information and get to meet and interact with course staff and other Zoology students. Our aim is to set you up for a strong start to the semester by tapping into your inner zoologist! |
Not Timetabled |
2. Fundamentals - Development & classification Prof Peter Mumby Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
|
Not Timetabled |
3. Zoology in context: solving the plight of GBR Prof Peter Mumby Learning outcomes: L01, L04 |
|
Week 2 (04 Aug - 10 Aug) |
Team Based Learning |
Fundamentals of animal survival with A/Prof Louise Kuchel In this class we tap into what you already know about the essentials for animal life to create your own unique animal for a given habitat type Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
Not Timetabled |
4. Inverts: Sponges...more than just a good sponge Prof Peter Mumby Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Not Timetabled |
5. Inverts: Corals, jellies & things that sting Dr Ben Mos Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 3 (11 Aug - 17 Aug) |
Practical |
Porifera, Cnidaria & the Great Barrier Reef Laboratory. Prof Peter Mumby Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
6. Invertebrates: Sea cucumbers to starfish The Echinoderms. Dr Ben Mos Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Not Timetabled |
7. Invertebrates: Ecydyzoa Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 4 (18 Aug - 24 Aug) |
Team Based Learning |
Animal ethics & Molluscs with Dr. Ben Mos Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
8. Invertebrates: Panarthropoda/Arthropoda Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Not Timetabled |
9. Invertebrates: Chelicerata/Myriapoda Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 5 (25 Aug - 31 Aug) |
Practical |
Ecdysozoa Laboratory. Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
10. Inverts: Insects - the largest animal taxon Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Not Timetabled |
11. Invertebrates: Crustaceans- insects of the sea Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 6 (01 Sep - 07 Sep) |
Team Based Learning |
Zoological techniques Workshop. A/Prof Louise Kuchel |
Not Timetabled |
12. Zoology in context: animals & human health Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
|
Not Timetabled |
13 Invertebrates: Annelids - worms glorious worms Dr Gurion Ang Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 7 (08 Sep - 14 Sep) |
Practical |
Annelids & Nematoda Laboratory. Prof Sassan Asgari Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
14. Zoology in context: MoretonBay Reef Management Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04 |
|
Not Timetabled |
15. Vertebrates: Diversity of Chordates Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 8 (15 Sep - 21 Sep) |
Team Based Learning |
Vertebrate diversity Workshop. A/Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
16. Vertebrates: Body plans & development Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts & Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel Learning outcomes: L01, L02 |
|
Not Timetabled |
17. Vertebrates: Doing the Locomotion Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts & Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 9 (22 Sep - 28 Sep) |
Practical |
Fish diversity & dissection Laboratory. Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
18. Vertebrates: Sensing the environment Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L04, L05 |
|
Not Timetabled |
19. Vertebrates: Respiration & Circulation Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts & Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Mid Sem break (29 Sep - 05 Oct) |
Not Timetabled |
Mid-semester break No lectures or practicals this week |
Week 10 (06 Oct - 12 Oct) |
Team Based Learning |
Zoology Careers Workshop. Dr Gurion Ang & Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel |
Not Timetabled |
20. Vertebrates: Fluid balance Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel Learning outcomes: L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 11 (13 Oct - 19 Oct) |
Practical |
Amphibians & reptiles Laboratory. Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
21. Vertebrates: Food acquisition Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel & Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Not Timetabled |
22. Vertebrates: Urinogenital system 1 Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel & Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 12 (20 Oct - 26 Oct) |
Practical |
Mammals & birds Laboratory. Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel Learning outcomes: L01, L02, L03, L04, L05 |
Not Timetabled |
23. Vertebrates: Urinogenital system 2 Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel & Assoc Prof Ian Tibbetts Learning outcomes: L02, L03, L04, L05 |
|
Week 13 (27 Oct - 02 Nov) |
Team Based Learning |
24. Course overview & End sem exam discussion Assoc Prof Louise Kuchel |
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.