Module overview
This module develops understanding of the components important for cell function and looks at how cells function in organs and whole organisms.
Lectures will be accompanied by practicals, some of which involve the use of animal tissue, with alternatives in place if required to meet minimum learning outcomes.
Linked modules
1st draft of the new module for 2020-21
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Describe the structure of a typical biological membrane and explain the ways in which polar and non-polar substances cross this barrier.
- Describe the autonomic nervous system and its role in co-ordinating behaviours.
- Describe the hormonal main controls on metabolism.
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian respiratory system.
- Explain homeostatic processes with reference to cellular physiology.
- Understand the organisation and structure of the four basic tissue types and their association into organs and systems.
- Describe how optimal blood flow distribution around the body is ensured by a combination of cardiac function and peripheral blood flow regulatory mechanisms.
- Describe the structure and function of the mammalian kidney.
- Explain and describe evidence for the ionic basis of the resting potential membrane and action potential in excitable cells. Calculate equilibrium and membrane potentials using the Nernst and Goldman equations.
- Describe the endocrine regulation of reproduction.
- Describe the control, structure and function of skeletal muscle and smooth muscle.
- Understand the structure and function of the cytoskeleton.
- Recognise and be able to describe the structure and function of key components of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
- Describe the main neuroendocrine axes.
- Describe the principles of digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Identify each of the main steps involved in the cell cycle and consequences of the process going wrong.
Subject Specific Practical Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Draw annotated diagrams of biological structures and features.
- Know how to safely set up a compound microscope, prepare slides of biological samples and observe biological structures using and appropriate magnification.
- Understand how to analyse human respiration
- Know how to use a haemocytometer to count cells
- Be able to carry out a simple dissection of animal tissue and conduct analysis of muscle physiology.
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Understand how to work safely in a laboratory and to put this into practise
- Develop team-based skills in working in a laboratory in a small group.
- Be able to analyse and present data.
Syllabus
Organelles and components of the cell.
Cell division.
Organisation of cells into tissues.
Homeostatic processes in cellular physiology.
Blood flow and distribution.
Digestion and nutrient absorption.
Kidney function.
Autonomic nervous system.
Structure and function of skeletal and smooth muscle.
Mammalia respiration.
Endocrine system.
Hormonal control of metabolism
Endocrine regulation of reproduction.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
The module will be taught using a combination of lectures and laboratory practical classes.
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Lecture | 50 |
Practical | 18 |
Independent Study | 232 |
Total study time | 300 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Alberts et al (2015). Molecular Biology of the Cell. Garland Science.
Dee, Unglaub, Silverthorn (2018). Human Physiology : an integrated approach. Pearson.
Assessment
Formative
This is how we’ll give you feedback as you are learning. It is not a formal test or exam.
Practical
- Assessment Type: Formative
- Feedback:
- Final Assessment: No
- Group Work: Yes
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Practical | 20% |
Written assessment | 80% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Written assessment | 100% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External