Module Information

Module Identifier
BR10310
Module Title
Biology of the Cell
Academic Year
2014/2015
Co-ordinator
Semester
Semester 1
Pre-Requisite
A/AS Biology or equivalent
Other Staff

Course Delivery

Delivery Type Delivery length / details
Lecture 2 x 1 hour lectures per week (22 hours)
Seminars / Tutorials 1 x 3 hour on-line seminars (3 hours)
Practical 2 x 3 hour practicals (6 hours)
 

Assessment

Assessment Type Assessment length / details Proportion
Semester Assessment Practical reports.  20%
Semester Assessment Test.  20%
Semester Exam 1.5 Hours   60%
Supplementary Assessment Students must take elements of assessment equivalent to those that led to failure of the module.  40%
Supplementary Exam 1.5 Hours   Students must take elements of assessment equivalent to those that led to failure of the module.  60%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

1. Describe the integrated structure and function of the generalized eukaryotic cell

2. Identify the structures of cell organelles and their chemical constitution

3. Discuss the functions of the various cell organelles, their intercommunication and their contribution to the overall functioning of the cell

4. Describe the mechanisms which regulate the cell and be able to discuss the life cycle of a cell

5. Interpret cytology images and manipulate data

Brief description

The module will introduce students to the structure and function of eukaryotic cell emphasizing the dynamic nature of the cell and the inter-relatedness of the component parts.

Content

1. Studying cells ? history and techniques
2. Origins of cells and the concept of endosymbiosis
3. Membranes as barriers and organizing structures
4. The cytoskeleton, movement and transport
5. Cells interacting with other cells
6. The nucleus and how it controls the cell
7. The cell cycle and cell death
8. Cancer cells

Module Skills

Skills Type Skills details
Application of Number Analysis of numerical data from practicals and the use of simple statistics.
Communication
Improving own Learning and Performance Students will be required to identify and use additional sources of information in the preparation of practical reports.
Information Technology
Personal Development and Career planning
Problem solving Interpretation of experimental results and a requirement to integrate these results within existing knowledge.
Research skills
Subject Specific Skills Manipulation of samples for microscopy. Safe handling of biological specimens and general lab safety and good practice.
Team work Students will be required to work in groups in which individual members will be required to adopt specific roles. Opportunities to reflect on these roles will be given. Although not formally assessed, all students will be given feedback about their development with regard to this skill set.

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4