Unit information: Biology 1B: Life Processes in 2018/19

Unit name	Biology 1B: Life Processes
Unit code	BIOL12000
Credit points	40
Level of study	C/4
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24)
Unit director	Dr. Andy Bailey
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	None
Co-requisites	None
School/department	School of Biological Sciences
Faculty	Faculty of Life Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

The structure and function of cells and their macromolecular components; animal physiology, neurobiology and development; transmission, molecular, population and evolutionary genetics; animal immune systems; natural communities and interactions within communities; exploitation and management of natural and agricultural ecosystems.

Aims:

• To present a wide-ranging biological course emphasising the general biological principles of cell biology, physiology, biochemistry, genetics and ecology.
• To create a broad objective understanding of the intellectual and practical skills required by biologists.
• To provide a basis for higher-level biological courses, or a support for other science courses involving living organisms.

Intended Learning Outcomes

1. On completion a student will have gained a detailed knowledge and understanding of the diverse range of biological processes of living organisms

2. Be able to use methods for independent study

3. Be competent in a range of biological practical skills

Teaching Information

• Lectures: 3x 50 min lectures each week
• Laboratory classes: 1x 3-hour class each week. These classes include practical work with plants, animals, fungi and microbes.
• Self-directed learning. Students are expected to spend approx. 2hours on additional reading per lecture.
• 20 hours of Dynamic Laboratory Manual (DLM)
• Demonstrations
• Videos
• Field trips

Assessment Information

The unit mark will be calculated as follows: 50% for the Summer exam (tests ILOs 1 and 2), 10% for the January assessment test (tests ILO 1) and 40% for continuous assessment (CA).

The 40% CA mark is made up as follows:

•20%: Assessed practicals (i.e. post labs). Tests ILOs 2 and 3.

•20%: Practical examination. Tests ILOs 2 and 3.

Reading and References

The recommended textbook is

• Campbell Biology, Pearson, 9th revised edition ISBN13: 9781408277379

Also recommended is:

• A good general biology dictionary, e.g. Henderson’s Dictionary of Biology, Pearson Paperback ISBN13: 9781408234303