• Home
• Study
• Study Information
• Modules
• Module Information

Fast Track Biology

Module description

This module introduces the biological concepts needed for university study. Topics include cell structure and function, biological molecules such as nucleic acids and enzymes, simple genetics as well as respiration and photosynthesis as examples of biochemical pathways. The ecology topic allows study in the field. Application of practical skills is an integral part of the course and precise use of scientific language both written and spoken, underpins all the topics in this module.

Module aims - intentions of the module

1. To develop confidence in a science subject and allow students to cultivate a curiosity for biology.
2. To develop biological knowledge and practical skills in preparation for undergraduate study, through linking theory classes with laboratory practice.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

ILO: Module-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 1. Demonstrate competency in laboratory techniques commonly used in biology.
• 2. Demonstrate a coherent understanding of the key biological structures, processes and concepts underpinning living organisms and their environment (as covered in the module).
• 3. Show an ability to integrate knowledge from various biological disciplines (as covered in the module) and apply it to real-world situations.

ILO: Discipline-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 4. Demonstrate an ability to plan and execute experiments, analyse results, draw valid conclusions and relate these to theoretical biological models, hypotheses and concepts.
• 5. Synthesize information and concepts to inform explanation, analysis and evaluation. To be able to reach conclusions based on the evidence that is presented in a logical and systematic approach.
• 6. Plan, execute and present an independent investigation (including compiling risk assessments).

ILO: Personal and key skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 7. Reflect on tutor and peer feedback and take responsibility for one’s own learning.
• 8. Use mathematics, including statistics and IT, to analyse and evaluate data.
• 9. Demonstrate ability to communicate effectively using conventions appropriate to the field of study.

Syllabus plan

This module would typically cover the following areas:

• Cells: membranes & transport.
• Ecology – coastal/moorland. Field study. Populations & management.
• Biological Molecules – carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, DNA, water.
• Microbiology – microscopy, bacteria, fungi, aseptic technique.
• Plant biology – transpiration, photosynthesis. Genetics – cell division, genetic crosses, genetic technology.
• Genetics
• Physiology- circulation, respiratory system, digestive system.

Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)

Details of learning activities and teaching methods

Formative assessment

Summative assessment (% of credit)

Details of summative assessment

Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)

Re-assessment notes

Deferral – if you miss an assessment for reasons judged legitimate by the Mitigation Committee, the applicable assessment will normally be deferred. See ‘Details of reassessment’ for the form that assessment usually takes. When deferral occurs, there is ordinarily no change to the overall weighting of that assessment.  

Referral – if you have failed the module overall (i.e., a final overall module mark of less than 40%) you will be required to take a referral exam. ONLY your performance in this exam will count towards your final module grade. A grade of 40% will be awarded if the examination is passed. 

Indicative learning resources - Basic reading

Basic reading:

• Williams, G. (2015). Advanced Biology for You. Cheltenham: OUP

Indicative learning resources - Web based and electronic resources

Web-based and electronic resources:

• University learning platform – ELE

Faculty to provide hyperlink to appropriate pages

Topic workbooks – posted on ELE in the Biology module section. These will contain details of internet resources at a suitable level.

Key words search

Biology