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
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- Use biological skills in contexts which bring together different areas of the subject.
- Draw on existing knowledge to show understanding of the ethical, social, economic, environmental and technological implications and applications of biology;
- Select, organise and present relevant information clearly logically and using specialist vocabulary where appropriate;
- Recognise, recall and show understanding of specific biological facts, terminology, principles, concepts, and practical techniques;
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- Manage your own learning;
- Use IT to support learning
- Communicate scientific information effectively;
- Apply problem solving techniques to familiar and unfamiliar biological problems;
- Apply mathematical methods to solve problems in biology;
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- 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;
- 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;
Syllabus
Topics include: Cell Biology, Human Physiology, Inheritance and evolution and Ecology.
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 |
|---|---|
| Revision | 18 |
| Wider reading or practice | 36 |
| Supervised time in studio/workshop | 48 |
| Preparation for scheduled sessions | 36 |
| Follow-up work | 90 |
| Lecture | 72 |
| Total study time | 300 |
Resources & Reading list
General Resources
Background Texts. Any A Level Biology/Human Biology text such as: Advanced Biology by Grace Monger, Michael Reiss and Michael Roberts. Nelson Thornes Ltd (2000) ISBN 0174387326 New Understanding Biology by Glen and Susan Toole. 4th ed. Nelson Thornes Ltd (1999) ISBN 0748739572 Biological Sciences Review (Part of the Philip Allan A-Level Review series, this quarterly publication is designed for AS and A2 students and ties in with specific units across AQA, Edexcel and OCR exam boards) Biology Web sites – Recommended resources listed on the VLE Biology by Mike Boyle & Kathryn Senior. 3rd edition. Collins (2008) ISBN-13978000726745-3
Assessment
Summative
This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written assessment | 40% |
| Written assessment | 60% |
Referral
This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Written assessment | 60% |
| Written assessment | 40% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External