Course overview
- Study period
- Summer Semester, 2025 (01/12/2025 - 14/02/2026)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- The Environment School
This course addresses the identification and classification of insects, the most species-rich component of terrestrial ecosystems. The course will cover the recognition of insects orders and the identification of specimens to family level using different types of keys and resources. A number of specific topics will be explored including: morphological and biological characteristics of the major insect orders; life histories of selected pest and beneficial species, sociality, sound production methods and functions, feeding mechanisms, adaptations and biology of vertebrate ectoparasites, insects as disease vectors of plants and animals, mimicry and defensive adaptations and parasitism. The practical component will examine collecting techniques, identification of adult insects to family level, identification of immature stages and feeding damage.
Insects are the most species-rich component of terrestrial ecosystems, and also a major component of freshwater aquatic systems. Some insects are important indicators of environment health, but othersﾠare increasingly important as biosecurity risks for agriculture, horticulture, livestock production, natural ecosystems and quality of life for humans. Taxonomy and insect identification underpin conservation efforts,ﾠbiosecurity monitoring and insect population control.
This course is primarily concerned with the identification and classification of insects, along with relevant life-history and behavioural information.ﾠ
The course begins with modules on classification and recognition of insect orders: this will be a recap for some students but it is a very important first skill underpinning the use of keys and guides to identify insects to levels that are useful for real-world applications or meaningful citizen-science projects. Later modules cover specific families within each order and the key features used to differentiate families or lower taxonomic levels. Specific topics covered include: morphological and biological characteristics of major insect families, life histories of selected pest and beneficial species, feeding mechanisms, adaptations and biology of vertebrate ectoparasites, insects as disease vectors of plants and animals, mimicry and defensive adaptations and parasitism.
We will cover the five main skills used for identifying insects: image databases and guides (such as PaDIL and field guides), dichotomous keys, multi-entry keys, image recognition (artificial intelligence) and DNA barcoding. At satisfactory completion of the course you will be able to identify almost any insect to the family level, ants to genus level, and butterflies and some other insect groups to species level (when keys or guides are available). These skills are sought after for citizen-science projects, and jobs in biodiversity surveying, biosecurity (including border force) and agricultural systems.ﾠ
The practical component will cover collecting techniques, identification of adult insects to family, genus or species level, identification of immature stages and feeding damage. A requirement of the course is the presentation of a well-curated insect collection, either physical or digital or mixed.
The course is mostly online but there is an "intensive" week from 19-23 January 2026 for those enrolled in internal mode. If enrolled in internal mode, you will be required to attend face-to-face during "intensive week". Because summer semester is shorter than other semesters, the work-load per week is greater than Semesters 1 and 2 but the total number of hours is the same. The overall workload is about 120–130 hours.
There will be several other opportunities for face-to-face interactions for those in both internal and external modes–see the learning activities.
Optional overnight field trip
An optional field trip has been arranged for 11-12 December 2025 (Thursday and Friday) at Hidden Vale in the Lockyer Valley. It will be an excellent opportunity to collect or photograph insects for your assessed collection—most other places you need a permit for collecting. You will need to make your own way there, and take your own gear and food if staying overnight. There will be more details on the course website at the start of the course.
Course requirements
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ENTM3001
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Tutor
Mr Chen-Hsin Fan
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Most course work is done at your own pace (with assessment deadlines interspersed) but there is an online tutorial via Zoom each week that you are expected to attend, and another Zoom time set aside for optional question time. There will also be optional face-to-face practical tutorials in December (see learning activities) and an optional field trip.
Aims and outcomes
1. to introduce students to the biology and classification of insects at family level, including species of environmental and economic importance.
2. to explore current theories in insect biology which attempt to explain the origins, functions and ecological significance of mimicry, sociality, defence strategies and parasitism;
3. to develop skills required to properly collect, curate and identify insects, and to identify the damage they cause to plants.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
identify insects to Order on sight
LO2.
use appropriate methods to identify unknown insects
LO3.
prepare and curate insect specimens for identification and placement in collections
LO4.
understand how insects and other animals are classified.
LO5.
apply the taxonomic conventions in using names of insects.
LO6.
implement time management skills for an extended project
LO7.
demonstrate an understanding of insect evolution and diversification
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz |
Weekly quizzes
|
20% |
Quiz 1: 10/12/2025 2:00 pm Quiz 2: 17/12/2025 2:00 pm Quiz 3: 24/12/2025 2:00 pm Quiz 4: 2/01/2026 2:00 pm Quiz 5: 14/01/2026 2:00 pm Quiz 6: 21/01/2026 2:00 pm Quiz 7: 28/01/2026 2:00 pm |
| Quiz |
Insect Identification Quiz
|
15% |
23/12/2025 4:00 pm
To be held during the tutorial. |
| Project | Main Insect Collection | 30% |
23/01/2026 12:00 pm |
| Examination |
Final Exam
|
35% |
23/01/2026 2:00 pm |
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
Weekly quizzes
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 20%
- Due date
Quiz 1: 10/12/2025 2:00 pm
Quiz 2: 17/12/2025 2:00 pm
Quiz 3: 24/12/2025 2:00 pm
Quiz 4: 2/01/2026 2:00 pm
Quiz 5: 14/01/2026 2:00 pm
Quiz 6: 21/01/2026 2:00 pm
Quiz 7: 28/01/2026 2:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
Task description
A series of quizzes associated with weekly online modules. The quizzes are to be completed online and some have practice (formative) quizzes that can be attempted multiple times.
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
Completed online via the course website in Learn.UQ
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.
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).
Insect Identification Quiz
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 15%
- Due date
23/12/2025 4:00 pm
To be held during the tutorial.
Task description
Identify insects to family, genus or species as required. You will be required to demonstrate successful use of identification tools, including specific multiple entry and dichotomous keys.
Students can use all of their resources including textbooks, keys, websites, guidebooks, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT), etc in completing this assessment task unless instructed otherwise. Students must clearly reference any use of these resources and tools in their exam papers. A failure to reference any resources used might constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
You will be provided the quiz on Blackboard during the class tutorial.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
If you are unable to attend the tutorial to complete this in-class assessment, you may apply via a deferred exam request for another chance to complete the assessment at a later date. You'll need to demonstrate through supporting documentation how unavoidable circumstances prevented you from attending. Your application must include acceptable evidence.
For students with an approved deferred request, the second attempt quiz will be scheduled on 12 January 2026.You must be available to attend this session. Please monitor Blackboard for further information.
Late submission
Late submission penalties do not apply to assessment which has a timer and are automatically submitted or take-home assessments. If you experience demonstrable system and/or process issues beyond your control that prevent you from completing this assessment, you may apply for exemption of the late penalty.
Main Insect Collection
- Mode
- Product/ Artefact/ Multimedia
- Category
- Project
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
23/01/2026 12:00 pm
Task description
You need to make and submit a physical or digital insect collection, or a combination of physical and digital collection. The criteria is available on Blackboard.
Important: Students are advised to ensure that you have the appropriate permission/permits for wherever you intend to collect.
Submission guidelines
Physical insect collections are to be handed in during class in intensive week, or posted to UQ with a receipt by the due date and time. Digital collections are to be submitted via the Turnitin link that will appear in the Assessments menu, by the due date and time.
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.
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).
Final Exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 35%
- Due date
23/01/2026 2:00 pm
Task description
The exam will include specimens that you need to identify to family, genus or species. You will be required to demonstrate successful use of identification tools, including specific multiple entry and dichotomous keys.
Final exam to be held during class time of the intensive week:
- Complete in-person non-invigilated examination on 23/01/2026. To pass this assessment, you must receive a mark of 50% or more.
- Oral Assessment: This is a Pass/Fail assessment. You will be scheduled to have an oral interview with the Course Coordinator via Zoom between 09/02/2026 to 11/02/2026. If you cannot attend the scheduled interview, please contact the course coordinator for alternitve date.
To pass this assessment, you need to pass the in-person exam and pass the oral assessment.
Students can use all of their resources including textbooks, keys, websites, guidebooks, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT), etc in completing this assessment task unless instructed otherwise. Students must clearly reference any use of these resources and tools in their exam papers. A failure to reference any resources used might constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See Additional Course Grading Information for the hurdle information relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | no planning time minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | Any calculator permitted |
| Open/closed book | Open book examination - any written or printed material is permitted; material may be annotated |
| Materials | Fully open book, any materials including but not limited to websites and AI may be used. All materials used need to be acknowledged. |
| Exam platform | Other |
| Invigilation | Not invigilated |
Submission guidelines
For internal students:
If choosing the paper copy, complete the exam and submit paper to course coordinator at the due date and time.
If choosing to complete the digital form, download the Word document, complete it, and upload to Turnitin at the due date and time.
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
Hurdle Assessment:
In order to pass this course, you must receive a mark of 50% or higher in the Final Exam. If you do not meet this requirement, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3.
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 link above 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.
Additional learning resources information
Given this is a mostly (or completely for externally enrolled students) online course, it is important that you pace your learning appropriately. Quizzes associated with each module have staggered due dates, and this is a way of helping you stay on track with learning materials. Make sure you give yourself enough time to read and watch the online resources, and do some practice quizzes.
When you come to campus, it is preferable that you have your own laptop to bring along, though we can supply computing if you do not have one. If borrowing one of ours, you will need your student card.
Microscopes will be available for those who come to campus.
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 |
|---|---|---|
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 8 |
Not Timetabled |
Insect Collection Students are to make a digital or physical insect collection and identify the insects to the level specified in the instructions. This will require searching for insects at home or on campus, and attending the optional field trip if they want. |
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 6 |
General contact hours |
Weekly Tutorial via Zoom Tutorial via Zoom on every Tuesday from Week 1 to Week 6 from 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm. |
General contact hours |
Question time 30 minute slot for questions about the learning materials and tutorial from Week 1 to Week 6. Date and time of this session will be advised on Blackboard. |
|
Week 1 (01 Dec - 07 Dec) |
General contact hours |
Background and revision Self directed: Introduction to course Videos of professionals discussing entomology as it relates to their jobs Revision of names of insect Orders Revision of identifying insect Orders by images Revision of the arthropods |
Week 2 (08 Dec - 14 Dec) |
General contact hours |
Week 2: Overview of insect diversity and taxonomy Basic insect anatomy |
General contact hours |
Practical tutorial: Pinning & setting/photography Demonstration and practice of pinning and setting for insect collection, and photos required for a digital collection. Session will be recorded for those who cannot make it, but students are encouraged to attend if they have not collected and preserved insects before, or have not taken photographs for identification. |
|
General contact hours |
Optional field trip to Hidden Vale Optional visit Hidden Vale during the day or camp overnight. An opportunity to collect insects and learn from peers and entomologists. You will need to have or arrange your own food, drinks and transport, and camping gear if staying overnight. See information folder on course website. |
|
Week 3 (15 Dec - 21 Dec) |
General contact hours |
Week 3: Hexapods & non-neopterans The hexapods Hexapod evolution Non-neopteran insects |
Week 4 (22 Dec - 28 Dec) |
General contact hours |
Week 4: Polyneoptera and Paraneoptera General information and family details for Polyneoptera and Paraneoptera |
Week 6 (12 Jan - 18 Jan) |
General contact hours |
Week 6: Endopterygota I Background information about Endopterygote orders and major families. |
Week 7 (19 Jan - 25 Jan) |
General contact hours |
Week 7: Endopterygotes II Background information about Endopterygote orders and major families. |
Week 8 (26 Jan - 01 Feb) |
Workshop |
Week 8: Intensive week Guidance in insect identification and use of keys. Molecular identification-DNA barcoding. Identify slide mounted material. Identification challenges. Taxon-specific talks. Face to face for internal enrolments: compulsory attendance Wed-Fri but optional Mon-Tues. Activities streamed for externally enrolled students. Work of finalising insect collection. |
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
- AI for Assessment Guide
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.