Fundamentals of Biology

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;

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.

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

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.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat Information

Repeat type: Internal & External