Concepts of Biology
Duration
- One Semester or equivalent
Contact hours
- 51 Hours
On-campus unit delivery combines face-to-face and digital learning.
2021 teaching periods
Hawthorn
| Higher Ed. Semester 1 | Higher Ed. Semester 2 | |
|---|---|---|
Dates: Results: Last self enrolment: Census: Last withdraw without fail: |
Dates: Results: Last self enrolment: Census: Last withdraw without fail: |
Aims and objectives
This unit aims to develop an understanding of the fundamentals of biology as well as the structure and function of living organisms, their life processes and diversity. The unit also aims to provide a strong basis for later applications and extensions of this knowledge in various fields, including biotechnology, human biology and the environment.
Unit Learning Outcomes (ULO)
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
1. Demonstrate comprehension of theoretical concepts of the fundamental processes of living organisms.
2. Conduct and/or observe a variety of laboratory exercise within a safe environment
3. Applying problem solving skills to theoretical and practical tasks
4. Demonstrate basic written scientific communication skills
Unit information in detail
- Teaching methods, assessment, general skills outcomes and content.
Teaching methods
*Scheduled synchronous online learning events: N/A
Non-scheduled online learning events and activities: N/A
Other non-scheduled learning events and activities: N/A
Assessment
| Types | Individual or Group task | Weighting | Assesses attainment of these ULOs |
| Final Exam | Individual | 35-40% | 1, 3, 4 |
| Tests | Individual | 15-25% | 1, 3, 4 |
| Laboratory reports | Individual | 25-30% | 1, 2, 3, 4 |
| Portfolio | Individual | 5-15% | 1, 2, 3, 4 |
As the minimum requirements of assessment to pass the unit and meet all Unit Learning Outcomes to a minimum standard, a student must achieve:
(i) An aggregate mark of 50% or more, and
(ii) Obtain at least 40% in the final exam, and
(iii) Complete a minimum of 80% of laboratory work based on the criteria for successful completion as explained in the lab handout(s).
Students who do not successfully achieve hurdle requirements (ii) and (iii) will receive a maximum of 44% as the total mark for the unit and will not be eligible for a conceded pass.
General skills outcomes
During this unit students will receive feedback on the following key generic skills:
• Analysis Skills
• Problem Solving Skills
• Communication Skills
• Ability to tackle unfamiliar problems
• Ability to work independently
Content
The curriculum is divided into four broad areas:
1. The fundamental properties of living organisms and the basics of scientific analyses;
2. Cells as the fundamental units of life:
3. Genetic processes of encoding and regulating the cells activities and passing on hereditary information.
4. Biochemical processes of obtaining and utilising energy:
Study resources
- References.
References
A list of reading materials will be made available in the Unit Outline