Texts
Reed, R., Weyers, J. and Jones, A. (2016) Practical Skills in Biology, 6th ed. Pearson
Campbell, N.A., Reece, J. B., Urry, L., Cain, M.L., Wasserman, S.A., Minorsky, P.V. and Jackson, R.B. (2014) Biology: A Global Approach 10th ed. Pearson
Martini, Nath and Bartholemew (2015) Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology [10th Edition) Pearson Education
Learning Outcomes
1. Describe the significance and interaction of key biological processes, structure to function. Application
Knowledge and Understanding
2. Evaluate and interpret the relationship between anatomical forms and their associated functions. Analysis
Reflection
3. Develop fundamental abilities in generating biologically based data and subsequent analysis, evaluation and communication.
Application
Problem Solving
Communication
4. Discuss the diversity of life and its complexity at the anatomical, physiological and biochemical levels. Knowledge and Understanding
Enquiry
Indicative Content
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 your understanding of how the individual processes interact to promote the wellbeing of the whole organism as part of homeostatic integration.
You will be introduced to the fundamental aspects of structure and function as applicable within a wide selection of biologically based systems. The content of the module will encompass all domains of life, but will have a focus upon microbiological and mammalian systems as divergent examples of how life functions.
Within these two main examples you will explore the diversity of microbiological physiology and biochemistry and how these may relate to their identification. In addition you will begin to consider the importance of symbiotic relationships between microorganisms and other organisms. From the mammalian perspective, the complexity of their anatomy and physiology will be the underlying concept. You will thus explore the structure of the major systems (musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, renal, urogenital, nervous, endocrine) and their relationship to each other. Furthermore, you will link the structures to the control and overall functional state of the body to encompass the neurological, hormonal and immunological contributions.
Assessment Details
The modules has various assessment signposts to support the level 4 learner these are:
1) 1.5 hour practical examination (25%) based upon activities carried out during scheduled practical sessions. End of Semester 1 (Learning Outcomes 2, 3)
2) A formally constructed practical report (25%,1000 words) specified from one of the Semester 1 practical sessions. (Learning Outcome 3)
3) A report (50%, 1500). (Learning Outcomes, 1,2 and 4) [FINAL]
Learning Strategies
This contact time for this module uses
• Lectures 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 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
• Workshops used to reinforce the theory and practical components.
Independent study time management. The self directed study should involve on a weekly basis approximately.
• 1 to 2 hours reading the lecture/practical and making notes from reference sources before attending the lecture/practical
• 3 to 6 hours reviewing and reflecting on the lecture/practical, making additional notes post the session (i.e. analyse data, re-read reference notes, extended reading).
• 5 to 7 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.
Assessment Details
Practical Exam - (1 hour 30 minutes) weighted at 40%.
Coursework – Practical Portfolio (2500 word equivalent) weighted at 60%.
The modules has various assessment signposts to support the level 4 learner these are:
1) 1.5 hour practical examination (40%) based upon activities carried out during scheduled practical sessions. End of Semester 1 (Learning Outcomes 2, 3)
2) A Practical Portfolio (60%, 2500). (Learning Outcomes, 1,2 and 4) [FINAL]
Web Descriptor
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 your understanding of how the individual processes interact to promote the wellbeing of the whole organism as part of homeostatic integration.
You will be introduced to the fundamental aspects of structure and function as applicable within a wide selection of biologically based systems. The content of the module will encompass all domains of life, but will have a focus upon microbiological and mammalian systems as divergent examples of how life functions.
Within these two main examples you will explore the diversity of microbiological physiology and biochemistry and how these may relate to their identification. In addition you will begin to consider the importance of symbiotic relationships between microorganisms and other organisms. From the mammalian perspective, the complexity of their anatomy and physiology will be the underlying concept. You will thus explore the structure of the major systems (musculoskeletal, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, renal, urogenital, nervous, endocrine) and their relationship to each other. Furthermore, you will link the structures to the control and overall functional state of the body to encompass the neurological, hormonal and immunological contributions.