Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2005-2006 (archived)

Module CHEM3211: BIOACTIVE CHEMISTRY 3

Department: CHEMISTRY

CHEM3211: BIOACTIVE CHEMISTRY 3

Type Tied Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2005/06 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to FGC0

Prerequisites

  • Core Chemistry 2 (CHEM2012) AND Ring Chemistry (CHEM2031).

Corequisites

  • Advanced Organic Chemistry (CHEM3031) AND Biological Chemistry (CHEM2051).

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Core Chemistry 3 (CHEM3012) AND Chemistry and Society (CHEM3061).

Aims

  • To develop the fundamentals presented in Core Chemistry 2 through in-depth discussion of selected areas of chemistry.

Content

  • Organic synthesis.
  • Organic mechanisms.
  • Transition-state theory and its applications.
  • Introductory polymer chemistry.
  • Dissertation.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • Employ advanced methods of organic synthesis alongside more basic methodologies learnt in earlier years to solve problems in organic chemistry.
  • describe synthetically useful free radical reactions.
  • describe the principles of transition state theory and to develop equations for rate constants and activation parameters.
  • use simple models to calculate the size of polymers and be able to calculate molecular weight averages and differentiate between the two major synthetic routes for polymers.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Interpret simple 2D NMR spectra and use this evidence in the elucidation of molecular structure using a combination of techniques.
  • carry out advanced experimental work in organic chemistry using modern equipment.
Key Skills:
  • Demonstrate key skills in information retrieval, scientific writing, oral presentation and discussion of scientific results.
  • demonstrate problem solving skills.

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

  • Facts and new concepts are introduced in the lecture courses.
  • These are backed up by workshops where the student attempts problems and is helped with any difficulties.
  • Knowledge is tested by examination.
  • Practical work involves the use of complex experimental techniques and report writing.
  • The dissertation provides students with the opportunity to evaluate a small part of the scientific literature and to present their findings.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 33 Twice Weekly 1 Hour 33
Workshops 8 3 per Term 2 Hours 16
Practicals 8 Weekly in Epiphany term 3 Hours 24
Preparation and Reading 127
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 60%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
examination Three hours 100%
Component: Dissertation Component Weighting: 25%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
dissertation 100%
Component: Practical Component Weighting: 15%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
practical 100%

Formative Assessment:

A collection examination in the first week of the Epiphany Term. Workshop problems.


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