Class General Ecology

It is part of the set of subjects that aims to provide students with skills in ecology, allowing them to understand the bases of trophic processes that regulate the cycles of energy and mass in ecosystems. In the discipline, the importance of using technical language in the ecology aspect is emphasized and the importance of links with other areas. It is a subject in the study cycle that enables students to understand the importance of the natural processes that shape environmental dynamics. Fundamental Curricular Unit (CU), which interconnects with the subjects of Chemistry and General Biology, serving in turn as a basis for subjects in subsequent years.

1.- Formation and composition of planet Earth

2 - Ecology: definition and scope

3.- Brief History of Ecology

4.- The diversity of ecosystems. The role of biodiversity in ecosystems. Food chains and trophic levels

5.- Energy flows in ecosystems: matter and energy

6.- Biogeochemical cycles: water, nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur

7.- Autoecology

8 - Pollution and its effects on organisms

9 - Population Ecology

10.- Community Ecology

11 - Notions on habitat ecology: terrestrial, marine and intertidal ecosystems ecology

Expository / interrogative method; development of works and challenges using bibliographic research and internet; individual / group work, case studies aim to apply and amplify acquired knowledge, reflection and discussion.

Active learning methodologies, namely: Case Study Analysis; Brainstorming; Role Play, Flipped Learning, Mind Maps, systemic thinking, favouring the 4 C's of Education (Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, Creativity)

• Alan Beeby and Anne-Maria Brennan, 2007, First Ecology - Ecological Principles and Environmental Issues , Third Edition, Oxford University Press, 432 p.
• The Economy of Nature: R. Ricklefs 2001 5ª ed., W. H. Freeman
•  Marine Ecology: Marine Ecological Processes. Ivan Valiela. Springer-Verlag, New York, 1984. x, 547 pp