Assessment detail: This will take the form of an investigation of homeostatic imbalance, and how it affects the interaction of the biological processes investigated in the module. The assessed will be formatively monitored in the following way:

Progression marker 1) Students provide an outline plan of their report which summarises the theoretical contents and their relevance to the essay topic. The plans will be submitted at the end of delivery week 8 (mid way through the module) and they will be returned with written formative feedback. Zero rated Pass/Fail

Progression marker 2) Students provide an enhanced outline of their plan which shows integration of the practical content with the theoretical component. The plans will be submitted at the end of delivery week 12 (mid way through the second half of the module) and they will be returned with written formative feedback. Zero rated Pass/Fail

From the feedback in 1) and 2) above plus additional material, students will construct a report around an investigation of homeostatic imbalance, and how it affects the interaction of biological processes, for submission two weeks after the end of the module

Over 16 weeks this module uses:
- Face to face lectures (16 x 1hrs) supported by a VLE containing additional formative tasks and support materials. Lectures will be used to deliver subject specific information and tutor lead discussion on topics linked to biological processes.
- Practicals (16 x 2 hrs) supported by a VLE containing additional formative tasks and support materials. Practicals will be used to deliver subject specific investigations of topics linked to biological processes

A range of multimedia support will be available via the VLE. The E-library and Faculty LRC will be used to support investigations into secondary and primary literature sources supporting the assessment

Independent study time management (approximately 16 x 6.5 hrs)
- Self directed study should involve on a weekly basis
- 1 to 2 hours reading the lecture/practical and making notes from reference sources before attending the lecture/practical
- 1 to 2 hours reviewing and reflecting on the lecture/practical, making additional notes post the session (i.e. analyse data, re-read reference notes, extended reading).
- 1 to 2 hours researching and making notes on issues that arise, extending your learning and preparing assessment materials
There is an emphasis on the student to make sure they are prepared for each session in advance

Equipped laboratory and Lecture room
Access to small group teaching rooms
Internet linked PC
Library

Jones, Reed and Weyers, (2007): Practical Skills in Biology (4th ed.), Pearson Education.
J.B. Reece, L.A. Urry, M.L. Cain, S.A. Wasserman, P.V. Minorsky and R.B. Jackson (2008), Campbell Biology: (9th ed) Pearson Education

This module will introduce the student to fundamental biological processes and how they impact upon the biosciences. Areas such as gene regulation, cellular signalling, homeostasis and crossing biological membranes will be explored and the various ways in which understanding can be gained (e.g. experimentation, observation, modelling) investigated.

We then move on to enhance understanding by integrating practical and theoretical areas utilising fundamental processes inherent in life such as movement, waste control, nutrition and reproduction.

The module aims to explore many of the levels of organisation found within biology and by illustrating fundamental processes, their control and their dynamic nature it will develop in the students an understanding of how the individual processes interact to promote the well being of the whole organism as part of homeostatic integration.