BI0BF1-Foundation Programme: Biology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 40 [20 ECTS credits]
Level:F
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Craig Hughes
Email: c.e.hughes@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will take you on journey from the small to the large.�� You’ll start by learning about biological molecules key to life, about cells and the chemical reactions that give them energy and allow them to replicate.�� You’ll also learn about the biology of the human body and about natural selection and genetics.�� There will be practical classes to introduce you to laboratory work, and to get used to handling and interpreting data, as well as the opportunity to undertake group work.�� This module will give you the grounding required for degree programmes.

Aims:

This module aims to provide the student with a sound understanding of biological principles and with analytical and practical skills appropriate to subsequent degree work.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Describe molecular structures of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins and explain their roles in living organisms


• Describe prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function


• Recognise the significance of bacteria, viruses and eukaryotic parasites as disease organisms


• Link cell diversity with function


• Describe photosynthesis and respiration including biochemical pathways


• Explain protein synthesis


• Describe the structure and function of mammalian organs and systems, for example, the liver and kidneys


• Explain the role of the heart mammalian circulatory system


• Describe and explain the structure and function of the nervous system


• Explain the role of hormones in the body


• Explain homeostasis and describe examples


• Understand how DNA is replicated


• Explain mechanisms of inheritance


• Recognise the significance of Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection and Evolution


• Describe and explain some of the recent advances in biotechnology


• Analyse and interpret data from practical work��

Additional outcomes:

Students will have the opportunity to

• improve their practical and data analysis skills


• enhance their library, IT and language skills


• team/group work


• present their work to their peers and academics in multiple formats

Outline content:

This module is split into 4 themes.�� Starting in Autumn term with “Building blocks of life” there will be coverage of biological molecules, and the cellular structure and organisation of both eukaryotes and prokaryotes.�� This is followed by “Physiology” covering the nervous system, hormones and homeostasis, the digestive and excretory systems, along with the circulatory system.�� Beginning the Spring term is the “Biochemistry” theme, dealing with the metabolic pathways of photosynthesis and respiration, as well as covering protein biosynthesis.�� The final theme is “Genetics and evolution” which covers DNA, reproduction, genetics, natural selection and evolution, as well as an introduction to biotechnology and the recent advances in this rapidly growing field.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Weekly lectures introduce students to the principles of the subjects studied.�� This is expected to be enhanced by background reading and additional study by students. Practicals introduce students to laboratory work, provide experience in gathering and analysis of data.�� Each term a group research task will allow students to work in groups and provide an opportunity to present their work to their peers and academics.�� This will also afford students the chance to provide peer fe edback.

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