BL1101 – Biology 1

Sarah Maynard-Morris
Thursday 20 January 2022

BL1101 – Biology 1


This module is an introduction to molecular and cellular biology. It covers cell diversity and the origins of life, cellular structures and fundamental processes. The central dogma of molecular biology is investigated through the examination of the structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins, and how this knowledge led to modern developments in biotechnology. The final section of the module gives an introduction into molecular and population genetics with an emphasis on the process of evolution. Throughout the module, the lecture material is complemented by practical classes where biological laboratory techniques are taught.


Skills acquired in this module:
  • Agarose Gel

  • Related Programme(s):

    Module Code:
    BL1101

    Semester:
    1

    Credits:
    20

    Module Organiser:
    Dr Susan Gurney

    Pre-requisite modules:



    MMS

    Timetable:


    [events_list category="BL1101"]

    Reading List:


    Reading list

    Assessment:

    Coursework = 100%

    MMS assessment details

    The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
    School of Biology Marking Criteria:
    School handbook

    Late submission of continuous assessment work:
    All late submissions of coursework that do not require electronic submission should be made via the late submissions box in the Biology Study Space, St Andrews New Technology Centre Building (beside the Teaching Office)

    Exam details:
    School handbook
    Exam timetable:
    Timetable

    Expected attendance:
    School handbook

    Good Academic Practice & Avoiding Academic Misconduct:
    School handbook

    University Student Handbook:
    University student handbook

    School and University Regulations:
    School and University regulations in the School and University Undergraduate Handbook relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, good academic practice and Academic Alerts.

    School handbook
    University student handbook

    Learning Outcomes:

    The aim of this module is to introduce you to fundamental concepts in biology related to cells, biological molecules, genetics and evolution.
    The module is divided into several sections covering: Cells & Genetics, Biological molecules & biotechnology, Energy & metabolism, Evolution

    Students completing module BL1101 successfully should be able to:

    Understand the basic structure and function of cells, how cells originated, and their organelles.
    Understand Mendelian genetics and its extensions, be able to map genes from linkage data.
    Understand the basic structure of DNA and RNA and their role in protein synthesis.
    Have a general understanding of bioinformatics.
    Have a general understanding of modern biotechnology, including uses of recombinant DNA.
    Understand what proteins are and how they function.
    Understand the usage of energy in living systems and the basic features of metabolism.
    Understand basic principles governing biological evolution.

    Policies:

    (Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)

    • The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology Undergraduate Handbook (https://biology.st-andrews.ac.uk/students/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2022/05/Undergraduate-Handbook-2021-22.docx)
    • All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
    • Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology Undergraduate Handbook and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
    • Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at:http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/