Module BISS1231: BIOCHEMISTRY

Department: BIOLOGICAL AND BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES) [Queen's Campus, Stockton]

BISS1231: BIOCHEMISTRY

Prerequisites

• GCSE Science Double Award.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To develop knowledge and understanding of the chemical basis of biological systems.
• The introduce students to the structure and function of biological macromolecules.

Content

• Reaction Stoichiometry
• Bonding in carbon compounds
• Organic chemistry of biologically important molecules
• Acid-Base equilibria - weak acids and bases, pH, buffers
• Electrochemistry
• Properties of molecules in solution - osmosis, non-ideal solutions
• Biomolecules: proteins, carbohydrates, lipids
• Spectroscopic methods of analysis

Learning Outcomes

• On completion of this module students should have an introductory knowledge of the chemical processes underpinning biological systems.

• Students should be able to work safely in the laboratory using procedures and techniques applicable applicable to biochemistry.

• Students should be able to demonstrate an ability to handle and interpret simple experimental data and write a practical report.
• Students should be able to research background information.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Theoretical knowledge will be delivered in lectures, practical classes and tutorials.
• Learning, knowledge and understanding will be assessed by practical reports and end of year examinations.
• The ability to handle and interpret data will be assessed in practical reports and data handling exercises.
• Familiarity with experimental techniques and safety procedures will be acquired during practical classes.
• The variety of methods of teaching and assessment will contribute to learning by providing detailed and rapid feedback.
• They are considered the most appropriate at this level in order to build a firm foundation for level 2 and level 3 where more individual initiative is expected.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Stoichiometry exercise, Practical write up, Molecular modeling workshop exercise.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University