BI1452, Trees: structure and function, 15.0 Hp
Print syllabus

Syllabus

Finalized by: Ordföranden för programnämnden för utbildning inom skog (PN-S), 2023-12-22
Valid from : Autumn semester 2026 (2026-08-31)

Level

First cycle (G1N)

Main field of study

Biology, Forestry Science

Biology Area

Ecology

Sub-area forestry science

Natural processes 15 credits

Grading Scale

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Course language

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

This course aims to give the students basic knowledge of the fundamental principles of tree biology. The course covers theoretical and practical knowledge that is important from a forestry perspective, such as conifer and broadleaf tree species identification, and growth and development of trees under different biological conditions.

After completing the course the student should be able to

• name and identify tree species and describe their optimal habitats and requirements
• describe basic processes of the growth and development of trees, and understand how environmental factors and silvicultural practices affect tree growth
• collect forest data and discuss the relevance of tree silvics in the context of urban and forest landscape management
• develop basic skills in professional writing.

Content

This course begins with the students being introduced to a broad range of topics in multiple-uses, values and benefits of trees in urban and rural environments. The course covers a broad range of topics relevant to the use of trees in forestry. It presents the basic concepts and terminology describing the structure and functions of trees, the taxonomy, morphology and use of important broadleaf and conifer trees in forestry and urban settings in Scandinavia and northern Europe. The course also provides basic knowledge in anatomy and physiology of trees, development and growth of different organs and tissues, chemical energy cycles, mineral nutrition and soil properties, water relations and transport, microbial symbiosis, and effects of environmental stress and silvicultural measures on tree growth. Tree species silviculture relevant for sustainable planning and management of trees in urban and rural forested settings is also covered. During the course special focus will also be given the writing process, aiming to support students in developing professional writing skills. In addition, basic statistics and biometrics will be trained.

The course contains lectures, laboratory and outdoor exercises and demonstrations, group and individual assignments (written and practical), discussions and seminars. Students will also participate in writing labs and receive individual instruction/feedback on writing assignments to progress writing skills.

Group work, oral and written presentations, and excursions are compulsory.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Passed written exam and passed mandatory assignments.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre

Supplementary information

Included in program

• Forest and Landscape (BSc)

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Tree identification	5.0	0001
Soils	2.0	0002
Tree anatomy and growth	3.0	0003
Mensuration and Biometrics	2.0	0004
WAC (Tree ID)	1.0	0050
WAC (Life of My Tree)	2.0	0060

The Course Replaces

BI1385

Other Information

Additional costs for excursions may apply. The course introduces ‘Writing Across the Curriculum’ (WAC), aiming to support students in developing professional writing skills.