Tree Growth and Function (HORT90041)

Graduate courseworkPoints: 12.5Dual-Delivery (Burnley)

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Overview

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February - Dual-Delivery
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Environmental stresses such as drought, extreme heat and severe wind events are increasing in urban environments. This subject aims to teach students how and why urban trees are vulnerable to such stresses through an understanding of fundamental tree biology. Mechanisms used by trees to adapt to stress will be investigated from a cellular to a whole tree level. This subject will be delivered through participation in a five-day intensive teaching period including lectures, tutorials and practical activities. Further study and completion of assessments are required in the nine weeks following the intensive teaching period 

Intended learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Explain the physiology and development of roots, leaves, branches, bark and wood;
  • Appraise the key anatomical features of angiosperm and gymnosperm trees and implications for growth and function;
  • Discuss photosynthesis, water transport and mineral nutrition and the implications of each on tree growth and function;
  • Evaluate and contrast the physiological and anatomical strategies that trees use to respond and adapt to environmental stresses.

Generic skills

Through participation in all class activities and completion of assessment, students should acquire skills in:

  • Technical and discipline areas, skills and values; for example by understanding the influence that a tree’s anatomy has on its function;
  • Investigation and analysis; for example by undertaking do-at-home “kitchen-bench” or computer-based  experiments, collecting and analysing data and reporting on such experiments after critically evaluating the relevant scientific literature;
  • Critical thinking and problem solving; for example, through recognising and mitigating the effects of environmental stresses on trees; and
  • Time and organisational management; for example, by successfully scheduling and submitting assessment tasks.

Last updated: 8 November 2024