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 cellular processes previously studied 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. First, you will develop your understanding of microbial structure, physiology and biochemistry and use these to consider how they relate to their organisation and their relationship with their environment and other organisms. You will then compare these with mammalian systems as divergent examples of how life functions.

From the mammalian perspective, the complexity of the anatomy and physiology will be considered, and you will begin to explore the structure of the major organ systems and how this relates to their function. Furthermore, you will start to consider the neurological, hormonal and immunological contributions in mammalian systems.

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.

Essay (1000 words) LOs 1,2
A 1000-word essay within which you will present an evaluation of a named physiological system, relating it anatomical form to its physiological function.

Class test (40 minutes) LOs 3,4
A 40-minute class test including a mix of multiple choice and short answer questions.

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. 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. Discuss the diversity of life and its complexity at the anatomical, physiological and biochemical levels. Knowledge and Understanding, Enquiry

4. Describe how biological cells, tissues and systems respond to disease. 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. 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

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 cellular processes previously studied interact to promote the wellbeing of the whole organism as part of homeostatic integration.