module specification

This module introduces students to key concepts of cell biology and human physiology to provide a foundation for subsequent study of biological subjects at Level 4. The key aims and objectives of this module are to enable students to achieve a fundamental knowledge base of biology which will underpin studies at higher levels. An introduction will be given to the structure of cells and the concept of the cell as the basic unit of life. A range of cell types will be discussed.  Following an appreciation of the role of cells in the structure and function of tissues and organs, students will be introduced to the anatomy and physiology of key organ systems in the body.

Cell theory.  Range of cell types: prokaryote; eukaryotes; cell specialisation.  An introductory overview of differentiated cells in multicellular organisms.  Cellular organelles.  Plasma membrane structure and functions; movement of molecules/ions across cell membranes.  The nucleus and DNA.  Chromatin; chromosome structure and organisation.  Mitosis and the cell cycle.  Meiosis as a source of genetic variation.  Genotype and Phenotype.  Simple Mendelian genetics.  Sources of error eg. Mutation, radiation etc.  The anatomy and physiology of digestion, respiration and the circulation in the human will be discussed in relation to homeostasis, as well as an introduction to the role of the kidney, liver and endocrine system as important regulators of the internal environment.  LO 1-5

Acquisition of knowledge of the subject matter of this module will be promoted through lectures (34 hours), tutorials (17 hours), self managed time and private study (249 hours). Lectures are used to introduce the basic concepts required to achieve the learning outcomes.  Tutorial sessions  are either problem-directed or discussion-based, designed to work through, and expand on, material delivered in lectures. Students will be expected to prepare for tutorial sessions by reviewing appropriate material and devoting sometime to problem-solving exercises.

The module is supported by a website on WebLearn which includes a number of electronic learning aids. Students would be expected to use the site for assisted study.

On successful completion of this module the students will be able to:

1. Recognise basic cell structures and have an awareness of different cell types
2. Relate the structure and activities of cell components to their functions and to cellular activities as a whole.
3. Present work orally or in writing having conducted research using library resources effectively
4. Explain physiological homeostasis and how this is achieved in multi-cellular organisms.
5. Describe the main components and role of physiological systems such as the circulatory system, endocrine system and the digestive system.

This module will be summatively assessed using a reflective assignment and 5 progress tests, a seen essay, and a presentation.  There will be a formative assessments for the students to complete in week 3 which will not contribute to the overall mark.

Feedback will be provided as part of online formative and summative tests.  Oral and written feedback will be presented to students on return of essay scripts. Material will be returned within 2 weeks of submission; in the event of marking taking 2-3 weeks, generic feedback will be given in the meantime.

To pass the module students need to achieve a minimum aggregate mark of 40%.

•Textbooks:

● Bax, C., Botey-Saló, P., Jacoby, J.  (2009) BM0001N Biology I and BM0002N Biology II. Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning [CORE]

Other Texts:

● Sadava, D., Hillis, D., Heller, H. (2016).  Life: The Science of Biology (11E). W.H.Freeman.

Journals: Plus on-line material; see the WebLearn site for details.

Websites:  See individual lectures.

Electronic Databases: Weblearn

Social Media Sources

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