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BIO407Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

Basic Entomology

This course provides a basic understanding of insects, their evolution, classification, and distribution. It explores the organization of external features, body organs, and systems, as well as the caste composition of social insects. Students will learn about the beneficial and detrimental effects of insects, their identification, and their behavioral adaptations. The course also covers insect pests of human dwellings and structures.

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78h
Study Time
13
Weeks
6h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
EntomologyInsectsClassificationEvolutionSocial Insects

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Insect Evolution

2

Insect Classification

3

Insect Morphology

4

Insect Physiology

5

Social Insect Behavior

6

Insect Ecology

Total Topics6 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic Biology

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Entomologist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Pest Control Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Agricultural Scientist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Zoologist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Research Scientist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

AgriculturePublic HealthEnvironmental ConservationPest ManagementResearch

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

2h

Unit 1: Insect Evolution

2 study hours
  • •Read the introduction to insect evolution.
  • •List the characteristics of insects.
  • •Discuss the evolvement of insects.
Week
2

Module 1:

2h

Unit 2: Classification and Distribution of Insects

2 study hours
  • •Explain similarities in members of the same species.
  • •Identify insect specimens.
  • •Assign a binomial nomenclature to each insect.
Week
3

Module 2:

2h

Unit 1: Organisation of External Structure

2 study hours
  • •Define tagmatisation in insects.
  • •State the three body segments in insects.
  • •Draw and discuss the main features on the insect head.
Week
4

Module 2:

2h

Unit 2: Maintenance and Locomotion

2 study hours
  • •Explain feeding in insects.
  • •Explain the functioning of the excretory system in insects.
  • •Describe the functioning of the tracheal system in gaseous exchange of insects.
Week
5

Module 2:

2h

Unit 3: Social Insects

2 study hours
  • •Explain what social insects are.
  • •Distinguish between termites and ants.
  • •Name and draw the various castes in termite community.
Week
6

Module 1:

6h

Unit 1: Insect Evolution

3 study hours
  • •Review Module 1: Insect Evolution and Classification
  • •Complete Tutor-Marked Assignment for Module 1

Unit 2: Classification and Distribution of Insects

3 study hours
  • •Review Module 1: Insect Evolution and Classification
  • •Complete Tutor-Marked Assignment for Module 1
Week
7

Module 2:

6h

Unit 1: Organisation of External Structure

3 study hours
  • •Review Module 2: External Structure and Maintenance
  • •Complete Tutor-Marked Assignment for Module 2

Unit 2: Maintenance and Locomotion

3 study hours
  • •Review Module 2: External Structure and Maintenance
  • •Complete Tutor-Marked Assignment for Module 2
Week
8

Module 2:

6h

Unit 3: Social Insects

6 study hours
  • •Review Module 2: Social Insects
  • •Complete Tutor-Marked Assignment for Module 2
Week
9

Module 1:

6h

Unit 1: Insect Evolution

4 study hours
  • •Revise the characteristics of insects and their evolution.
  • •Practice identifying different insect species based on their features.

Unit 2: Classification and Distribution of Insects

2 study hours
  • •Review the beneficial and detrimental effects of insects.
  • •Prepare notes on the classification and distribution of insects.
Week
10

Module 2:

6h

Unit 1: Organisation of External Structure

4 study hours
  • •Study the different types of mouth parts and their functions.
  • •Understand the modifications of wings in insects.

Unit 2: Maintenance and Locomotion

2 study hours
  • •Revise the individual organ systems and their functions.
  • •Understand the processes of feeding, digestion, respiration, and circulation.
Week
11

Module 2:

6h

Unit 3: Social Insects

6 study hours
  • •Focus on the caste composition and biological roles of social insects.
  • •Understand the behavioral adaptations of termites and honey bees.
Week
12

Module 1:

6h

Unit 1: Insect Evolution

6 study hours
  • •Comprehensive review of Module 1 topics.
  • •Focus on key concepts and definitions related to insect evolution and classification.
Week
13

Module 2:

6h

Unit 1: Organisation of External Structure

6 study hours
  • •Comprehensive review of Module 2 topics.
  • •Focus on key concepts related to insect structure, maintenance, and social behavior.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all tutor-marked assignments (TMAs) and their solutions.

2

Create detailed notes on each unit, focusing on key terms and concepts.

3

Practice classifying insects using identification keys and online resources.

4

Draw diagrams of insect anatomy to reinforce understanding of structures.

5

Form study groups to discuss challenging topics and share insights.

6

Allocate specific time slots for revision each day leading up to the exam.

7

Focus on understanding the life cycles and behaviors of major insect groups.

8

Practice answering past exam questions to get familiar with the format and difficulty level.

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