In this module you will develop knowledge and understanding of the chemical principles, structures and cellular processes which underpin life in all its forms.

Topics will include chemical principles such as atomic bonding, valency, the concept of pH and thermodynamics; sub-cellular and cellular structures beginning with simple chemical units and developing to complex molecules such as enzymes and structural proteins; and cellular processes such as energy transfer and the transcription and translation of genetic information.

Within the module you will become familiar with functional chemical groups, for example hydroxyl, amine, and thiol, and develop this into discussing protein structure from their constituent amino acids to their tertiary and quaternary structure and their function as enzymes, antibodies and structural proteins.

You will investigate the role of nucleic acids, beginning with bases through to the polymers of DNA and RNA (in its different forms), and their role in transcription, translation and reproduction. Within the transfer of genetic material, we will consider inheritance patterns and the impacts of gene transfer at an individual, population and evolutionary level.

You will apply your understanding of carbohydrates (from monosaccharides through to polysaccharides, with examples such as glycogen and cellulose and specialised monosaccharides attached to proteins and lipids) and will develop this to study how all these functional molecules are organised to create organelles, cells (both prokaryotic and eukaryotic) and viruses.

This module is mapped against the Quality Assurance Agency Benchmark for Biomedical Science and the National School of Healthcare Science Practitioner Training Programme curriculum and contributes to the Healthcare Science Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship Standard by developing your knowledge of the underlying scientific principles of the investigations offered by healthcare science services

A series of short answer class tests to assess ongoing engagement and understanding of the module content:

Class test 1 (40 minutes) LO 1
Online short-answer class test undertaken during week 5

Class test 2 (40 minutes) LO 2
Online short-answer class test undertaken during week 10

Class test 3 (40 minutes) LO 3
Online short-answer class test undertaken during week 15

This module is delivered as a blend of asynchronous online learning sessions, on campus study days and work-based study. Within each learning unit you will be given a range of learning outcomes and directed through a variety of learning material (for example recorded lectures, online exercises or collaborative activities) to work though asynchronously together with an opportunity to check and develop your learning (for example through online quizzes, challenge questions or discussion fora). You are encouraged to reflect upon the academic content of the module and consider how this is applicable within your workplace.

Your learning is supported by a group discussion board and weekly online sessions where you can discuss your learning with the academic teaching team.

1. Recognise the interdisciplinary nature of science with particular reference to the underlying knowledge of physics and chemistry necessary to support understanding of biological, biochemical and biophysical processes. Knowledge and Understanding

2. Demonstrate knowledge of the basic genetic principles relating to, and evolution of, life, together with the ability to describe and analyse patterns of inheritance and genetic interactions and explain the links to transmission of biological information and the resulting methods and principles underlying taxonomy and classification. Knowledge and Understanding, Learning

3. Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental chemical principles, complex chemical structures and processes that form the basis of life up to the cell (inclusive of prokaryote and eukaryote cell structure and virus structure). Knowledge and Understanding

You will require access to a computer with internet access.
Access to specialist facilities on campus.

Reed, R., Weyers, J. and Jones, A. (2016) Practical Skills in Biology, 6th ed., Harlow, 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., Harlow: Pearson

Fry, M. and Page E. (2012) Catch UP Chemistry 2nd ed., Bloxham: Scion Publishing

Bradley, P. and Calvert, J. (2013) Catch Up Biology 2nd ed., Bloxham: Scion Publishing

Nelson, D. L. and Cox, M. M. Lehninger (2013) Principles of Biochemistry 6th ed., New York: WH Freeman.

In this module you will develop knowledge and understanding of the chemical principles, structures and cellular processes which underpin life in all its forms. Topics will include chemical principles such as atomic bonding, valency, the concept of pH and thermodynamics; sub-cellular and cellular structures beginning with simple chemical units and developing to complex molecules such as enzymes and structural proteins; and cellular processes such as energy transfer and the transcription and translation of genetic information.