FOR20040 Tree Structure and Function

Academic Year 2021/2022

This module will provide students with foundation knowledge of the mechanisms of tree growth and development. The module is intended to underpin other forestry modules, especially Principles of Forestry, Forest Establishment and Silviculture of Forest Stands. Students will study primary and secondary growth of the shoot, including shoot and leaf growth mechanisms; and the structure and function of various tissues and cell types. Other areas of study will include: root initiation and development; branch initiation and growth; periderm formation; and whole-plant physiology. Reproductive growth in trees and some practical aspects of seed biology and seed storage will be examined.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to: Describe the origin, structure and function of various cell, tissue and organ types found in trees. Discuss the impact of environmental factors on growth, development and physiological activity in trees. Outline the procedures followed to maximise seed quality and quantity, including details on effect of harvesting, processing, and storage practices.

Indicative Module Content:

Mechanisms of shoot. Primary and secondary growth of the shoot. Structure and function of various tissues and cell types, root initiation and development; branch initiation and growth; periderm formation. Water relations, photosynthesis, dormancy and growth regulators. Reproductive growth, seed biology and seed storage.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24

Practical

24

Autonomous Student Learning

60

Total

108

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures, lab work, and some problem-based and case-based learning. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Class Test: Final exam Week 12 n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

30

Class Test: Mid-semester Exam Week 6 n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

25

Continuous Assessment: Short lab or class exams Varies over the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

15

Lab Report: Lab Book Varies over the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

15

Practical Examination: End-of-semester lab exam Week 12 n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

15


Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Class feedback provided. Individual feedback also available on request.

Name Role
Professor Aine Ni Dhubhain Lecturer / Co-Lecturer