BI0BF1-Foundation Programme: Biology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 40 [20 ECTS credits]
Level:F
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Craig Hughes
Email: c.e.hughes@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module will take you on journey from the small to the large.  You’ll start by learning about biological molecules key to life, about cells and the chemical reactions that give them energy and allow them to replicate.  You’ll also learn about the biology of the human body and about natural selection and genetics.  There will be practical classes to introduce you to laboratory work, and to get used to handling and interpreting data, as well as the opportunity to undertake group work.  This module will give you the grounding required for degree programmes.

Aims:

This module aims to provide the student with a sound understanding of biological principles and with analytical and practical skills appropriate to subsequent degree work.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Describe molecular structures of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins and explain their roles in living organisms


• Describe prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function


• Recognise the significance of bacteria, viruses and eukaryotic parasites as disease organisms


• Link cell diversity with function


• Describe photosynthesis and respiration including biochemical pathways


• Explain protein synthesis


• Describe the structure and function of mammalian organs and systems, for example, the liver and kidneys


• Explain the role of the heart mammalian circulatory system


• Describe and explain the structure and function of the nervous system


• Explain the role of hormones in the body


• Explain homeostasis and describe examples


• Understand how DNA is replicated


• Explain mechanisms of inheritance


• Recognise the significance of Darwin's Theory of Natural Selection and Evolution


• Describe and explain some of the recent advances in biotechnology


• Analyse and interpret data from practical work 

Additional outcomes:

Students will have the opportunity to

• improve their practical and data analysis skills


• enhance their library, IT and language skills


• team/group work


• present their work to their peers and academics in multiple formats

Outline content:

This module is split into 4 themes.  Starting in Autumn term with “Building blocks of life” there will be coverage of biological molecules, and the cellular structure and organisation of both eukaryotes and prokaryotes.  This is followed by “Physiology” covering the nervous system, hormones and homeostasis, the digestive and excretory systems, along with the circulatory system.  Beginning the Spring term is the “Biochemistry” theme, dealing with the metabolic pathways of photosynthesis and respiration, as well as covering protein biosynthesis.  The final theme is “Genetics and evolution” which covers DNA, reproduction, genetics, natural selection and evolution, as well as an introduction to biotechnology and the recent advances in this rapidly growing field.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Weekly lectures introduce students to the principles of the subjects studied.  This is expected to be enhanced by background reading and additional study by students. Practicals introduce students to laboratory work, provide experience in gathering and analysis of data.  Each term a group research task will allow students to work in groups and provide an opportunity to present their work to their peers and academics.  This will also afford students the chance to provide peer fe edback.

 

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	18	18	2
Demonstration	2	2
Practicals classes and workshops	3	3
Guided independent study:	127	127	98
Total hours by term	150	150	100
Total hours for module	400

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	50
Oral assessment and presentation	10
Class test administered by School	40

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One two hour MCQ examination 

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

• Students complete three practicals which are followed by an electronic MCQ test.  These collectively contribute 20% to the summative assessment.


• Tests at the end of the Autumn and Spring Terms each contribute 10% to the summative assessment.


• Students will work in small groups for a research task.  A group presentation will be given which will be assessed, contributing 10% to the summative assessment.

Formative assessment methods:

Students will work in small groups for a research task.  A poster presentation will be given in which students will assess each other’s work.  This will allow the opportunity for both giving and receiving formative feedback.  Academics will also provide feedback on the posters.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

40%

Reassessment arrangements:

By examination in August with continuous assessment carried forward if it is to the advantage of the student.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books:  None

2) Specialist equipment or materials:  None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:  None

4) Printing and binding:  None

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  None

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  None

Last updated: 22 September 2022