Faculty of Arts

Undergraduate - Unit


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6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL


FacultyFaculty of Arts
Organisational UnitPhysical Geography
OfferedClayton Second semester 2014 (Day)
Coordinator(s)Dr Vanessa Wong (Clayton); Dr Simon Connor


Previously coded GES2130


Soils and vegetation are intimately related components of the natural environment which are critical to the development, maintenance and functioning of ecosystems. The soils and vegetation of Australia are quite different from those in other parts of the world as a result of their evolution in isolation and the distinct climatic and geological history of the continent. Lectures in this unit focus on the description, classification and historical development of Australian soils and vegetation as a basis for their conservation and management. The practical side of the unit is designed to develop students' familiarity with key vegetation and soil types in south-eastern Australia and their analysis.


At the end of the course, students should have acquired:

  1. a familiarity with methods related to field and laboratory description and analysis of vegetation and soils;
  2. a basic understanding of soil-forming materials and processes;
  3. a basic understanding of the role of plants and vegetation in ecosystem functioning;
  4. an appreciation of the distinct nature of Australian soils and vegetation and how this knowledge can be used to contribute to the future conservation and management of these resources.


Written (1500 words): 30%
Examination (2 hours): 40%
Practical work/fieldwork (1000 words): 30%

Chief examiner(s)

Workload requirements

4 hours per week (composed of lectures and practicals, plus two days fieldwork)

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study