This course provides an overview of the fossil record of use to palaeoenvironmental reconstruction. Emphasis will be placed on the evolution of life on Earth, and the geochemical nature of fossils and the role they take in the evolution of the planet, and in particular the oceanic realm.

This course is for geology, biology, archaeology and those interested in environmental issues and past environments, including climate change.

Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately.

On completion of this course students will achieve:

1. Understanding of the evolution of life on Earth and how organisms contributed to the changes that occurred on land and in the oceans.
2. Basic knowledge of extinct fossil groups and on how to interpret their form and function.
3. Appreciation about the morphological changes and diversity of the fossil record in the oceans.

Theory Exam (50%)

Practicals (30%)

Field Trip Assignment (20%)

Bachelor degree; with either first year Geology or first year Biology.

Geology or Biology to the first year level.