This is a core module taken by student in the fields of Biochemistry, Biological Sciences (Genetics and Molecular Biology route), Pharmacology, and is an option module taken by Biomedical Science and Biological Sciences (General route)
The module builds on topics covered in LS4001 (Genes, Cells and Tissues) and explores more advanced concepts in cell and molecular biology. The module provides insight into the structure and function of cells, and takes an integrated approach to looking at how cells respond to changes in their environment - from receptor interactions and intracellular signalling pathways through to the regulation of gene expression and changes in cellular processes.
Formal lectures are supported by laboratory classes, tutorials, workshops, independent study and further resources available on Canvas. The module also includes opportunities to develop both data-handling and written skills.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Key concepts are introduced by the module team in lectures and tutorials, with online material provided on StudySpace to support student learning. Lecturers also provide structured tutor-directed learning to encourage students to develop independent learning skills. For example, aspects of cell biology are taught through independent learning guided by a package of Cell Biology Primer Sheets developed specifically for this module.
A proportion of every lecture is used to foster students' critical thinking, for example through the use of Q&A, quizzes and group discussion. This also reinforces learning and allows students to gain feedback on their level of understanding. Tutorials and workshops are provided to help students develop essay writing skills. In addition, a formative peer-assessed essay also allows students to gain experience of writing assessments and to gain feedback on essay writing skills in preparation for the end of module exam. An important focus in this module is the development of data-handling and interpretation skills, and it is partly through practicals and learning about current techniques in cell and molecular biology that the themes of the module are brought together. Integration of topics across the module is also emphasized in lectures and tutorials. Specific tutorials are provided to support practicals and data-handling throughout the module and mechanisms are in place to provide formative feedback during the development of these skills, as well as post-assessment feedback.
This module offers the opportunity to develop key skills including: critical thinking, through formative exercises in lectures and tutorials and relating to data-analysis; communication skills as well as general numeracy and independent learning skills.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | Lectures (42 hrs) Tutorials and workshops (19 hrs) Practicals and demonstration (10 hrs) | 71 |
| Guided independent study | 229 | |
| Study abroad / placement | ||
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
The module is summatively assessed by two data-handling in-course tests (each 25%) linked to practical and theoretical elements, and an end of module examination (50%) that assesses knowledge and understanding of topics across the module.
A range of formative assessments undertaken in class and during independent study will provide regular and detailed feedback to students so that they can monitor the level of their understanding and rate of progress on the module and assist in facilitating understanding. Students will have the opportunity for formative feedback on coursework assessments, through a series of tutorials providing support, examples and feedback on data-handling skills. A peer-assessed essay on a selected topic, in addition to the essay workshop and tutorials, will enable the development of writing skills for examinations.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Explain cell structure and function and the techniques that have allowed them to be determined | In-class data-handling test 1 (S) and final exam (S). |
| 2) Describe in molecular detail cell cycle processes and cell death | In-class data-handling test 1 (S) and final exam (S). |
| 3) Discuss the structure and function of receptor proteins and mechanisms of intracellular signal transduction | In-class data-handling test 1 (S) and final exam (S) |
| 4) Evaluate the role of DNA packaging, chromatin modification and epigenetic mechanisms in the regulation of gene expression | In-class data-handling test 2 (S), essay (F), and final exam (S) |
| 5) Discuss processes involved in transcription, translation and the regulation of gene expression | In-class data-handling test 2 (S), essay (F), and final exam (S). |
| 6) Interpret data related to practical and theoretical aspects of the module | In-class data-handling tests (S) |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| In class test 1 | Written Exam | 25% |
| In class test 2 | Written Exam | 25% |
| Final written exam | Written Exam | 50% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any major element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
Alberts et al, Molecular Biology of the Cell, Garland Science (most recent edition).
Karp, Cell Biology, Wiley (most recent edition).
Watson et al, Molecular Biology of the Gene, Pearson (most recent edition).
Lodish et al, Molecular Cell Biology, Freeman (most recent edition).