This is a core module taken by students studying Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Science, Forensic Biology, Forensic Science, Medical Biochemistry, Nutrition and Pharmacology. The module is intended to give you an understanding of how basic chemical elements are bonded to form complex biomolecules in living systems. The module will then elaborate on the role that structure of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids plays in defining their properties and function along with describing some of the laboratory techniques used in their investigation. The module will also introduce the importance of energy transformations in living organisms. The module provides an essential introduction to level 5 and 6 modules that develop further knowledge in biochemical principles. Core material is delivered through lectures and problem solving workshops supported by laboratory practicals and subsequent data analysis.
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Lectures will be given to introduce and develop the major topics. Online and keynote lectures will deliver the basic chemical concepts and these will be supported by workshops designed to supplement and illustrate chemical topics. Keynote lectures will develop the major biological topics and guide students in the directed reading required to achieve the learning outcomes of the module. These will be recapped and reinforced during tutorial sessions.
The practical component is designed to provide students with the basic skills needed for the manipulation of organic compounds and to aid the development of "hands on" skills of students when dealing with biological materials. Laboratory sessions will also be used to support the theoretical material covered in lectures and to develop interpersonal skills by working in groups. Practical report writing will test written communication skills. Numerical problems of an applied biochemical nature, used within tutorial/workshop sessions will test/develop numeracy and problem solving skills. Students will develop self-awareness and independent learning skills through directed reading, assimilation of learning materials via Canvas.
Opportunities for students to develop generic skills that will enhance their employability include group work in practical classes, which will embed time management, teamwork and communication skills. Students will be expected to use feedback from staff to self-reflect on areas of strength and weakness and thus improve performance.
The module provides knowledge to underpin students understanding of more complex level 5 modules such as Proteins and Metabolism and also level 6 studies in Clinical Chemistry and Immunology.
| Definitive UNISTATS Category | Indicative Description | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching | 44 one hour keynote lectures 12 one hour tutorials and workshops 4 practical sessions of 2-3 hours each | 66 |
| Guided independent study | Directed reading, problem solving and data handling, online lectures and worksheets | 234 |
| Total (number of credits x 10) | 300 | |
Summative assessment is through an end of module examination, a MCQ-based mid-module test and a practical portfolio. The main exam will consist of short answer questions and MCQ, which will assess students understanding of the structure and function of macromolecules and the basics of enzyme kinetics, metabolism and energy generation and utilization. The mid module test will assess students' comprehension of the basic chemistry which underpins all other reactions in living organisms. The practical portfolio consists of two written practical assessments which will test students' ability to present and analyse data effectively and an MCQ test of questions based on all of the practicals undertaken to test students knowledge of the experimental and biochemical principles underpinning them. The production of summative practical portfolio will be guided by the provision of feed-forward from a formatively assessed report from the previous practical. Students are expected to apply generic study skills, numeracy, data presentation and analysis into their practical reports. Feed forward for the MCQ-based test on the practicals will be given in small group tutorials.
| Learning Outcome | Assessment Strategy |
|---|---|
| 1) Demonstrate knowledge of atomic structure and bonding and how molecules interact with one another. | Mid-module MCQ Test (S) |
| 2) Understand basic chemical reactions including making and breaking of bonds. | Practical portfolio (F, S), Mid-module MCQ Test (S) |
| 3) Understand the conformations and stereochemistry of molecules. | Mid-module MCQ Test(S), End of year exam (S) |
| 4) Describe, recognise and understand the structural properties and functions of the proteins, carbohydrates and lipids. | End of year exam (S) |
| 5) Display a knowledge of the basic metabolic pathways and their relationship to energy transformations | End of year exam (S) |
| 6) Demonstrate the key communication skill of report writing and develop laboratory and independent learning skills. | Practical portfolio (F, S) |
| Description of Assessment | Definitive UNISTATS Categories | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| End of year exam | Written exam | 40% |
| Open book on line MCQ test | Coursework | 30% |
| Portfolio of practical assessments | Coursework | 30% |
| Total (to equal 100%) | 100% | |
It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.
The current editions of the following:
Crowe, J. and Bradshaw, T. Chemistry for the Biosciences, Oxford University Press
Nelson D L & Cox M M Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry, WH Freeman.
Reed, R. Holmes, D. Weyers, J. and Jones, A. Practical Skills in Biomolecular Sciences, Longman
Useful Tips for Handling Quantitative Data in Biology. Life Sciences Study Package (Canvas resource)