Module overview
This module is designed to provide students with the biology knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to degree-level study in disciplines which require a strong background in the subject. The material covered is at a level corresponding to pre-university qualifications such as Alevel in the UK. The module provides a foundation of knowledge in physiology and cell biology, and there is a strong emphasis on the application of the subject in different contexts.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- apply mathematical methods to solve problems in biology;
- communicate scientific information effectively;
- apply problem solving techniques to familiar and unfamiliar biological problems;
- use IT to support learning
- manage your own learning;
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- select, organise and present relevant information clearly logically and using specialist vocabulary where appropriate;
- draw on existing knowledge to show understanding of the ethical, social, economic, environmental and technological implications and applications of biology;
- use biological skills in contexts which bring together different areas of the subject.
- recognise, recall and show understanding of specific biological facts, terminology, principles, concepts, and practical techniques;
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- assess the validity of biological information, experiments, inferences and statements
- interpret and translate from one form to another, data presented as continuous prose, or in tables, diagrams, drawings and graphs;
- apply biological principles and concepts in solving problems in unfamiliar situations including those which relate to ethical, social, economic and technological implications and applications of biology;
- describe, explain and interpret phenomena and effects in terms of biological principles and concepts, presenting arguments and ideas clearly and logically, using specialist vocabulary where appropriate;
Syllabus
This module is designed to provide students with the biology knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to degree-level study in disciplines which require a strong background in the subject. The material covered is at a level corresponding to pre-university qualifications such as Alevel in the UK. The module provides a foundation of knowledge in physiology and cell biology, and there is a strong emphasis on the application of the subject in different contexts.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include
- Lectures, supported by handouts illustrating theory and examples.
- Projected materials.
- Study materials available on the Virtual Learning Environment.
- Practice exercises and tests.
Learning activities include
- Problem solving, comprehension and data analysis exercises
- Self assessment exercises
- Group discussion/question and answer sessions
- Individual research on topics
- Private study
Study Time Allocation:
- Contact Hours: 120
- Private Study Hours: 180
- Total study time: 300 hours
Type | Hours |
---|---|
Wider reading or practice | 36 |
Lecture | 72 |
Follow-up work | 90 |
Revision | 18 |
Supervised time in studio/workshop | 48 |
Preparation for scheduled sessions | 36 |
Total study time | 300 |
Resources & Reading list
Textbooks
Glen and Susan Toole (4th). New Understanding Biology. Nelson Thornes Ltd.
Grace Monger, Michael Reiss and Michael Roberts (2000). Advanced Biology. Nelson Thornes Ltd.
Mike Boyle & Kathryn Senior (2008). Biology. Collins.
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Assignment | 60% |
Assignment | 40% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
Method | Percentage contribution |
---|---|
Assignment | 60% |
Assignment | 40% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External