UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE
SCHOOL OF PHARMACY AND
BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES
Fundamentals of Biosciences
BL1011
MODULE BOOKLET
2022/23
Module Tutor: Dr Roshini M Mathews, Dr Imeobong Antia
Room Number: MB027, MB149
Email Address: RMMathews@uclan.ac.uk, IAntia@uclan.ac.uk
Last updated Sep 2022
1.
INTRODUCTION
This booklet contains a summary of the Level 4 module Fundamentals of Biosciences for the
2022-2023 academic year. A timetable of lectures and assessment details are also included. It
is hoped that the information will help you to understand how this module is organised and hence
improve the enjoyment of your studies. It is to your advantage to familiarise yourself with the
information found within. If for any reason you know that you will miss a lecture, let the lecturer
involved know. If you have difficulties with any of the subject information or assessments, please
talk to the module tutor.
The syllabus will be delivered through a series of one-hour lecture slots which will provide you
with subject specific skills necessary for a career in Biological Sciences and Biomedical
Sciences. You will also undertake a number of laboratory practicals, which will help develop the
laboratory skills necessary for a lab-based career.
This module is assessed by coursework and examination, for successful completion of this
module a minimum aggregate mark of 40% must be achieved in coursework and exams
and a pass must be achieved for the practical workbook
You are expected to arrive at all classes fully prepared ready for the class to begin on time.
However, we do recognise that there may be a need to show a certain amount of flexibility and
for that reason you will be allowed into a classroom-based activity e.g.
lectures/tutorials/workshops up to 5 minutes after the actual start time. Please note this does not
apply to laboratory practical classes. For lab-based sessions, if you are late for ANY reason,
you will NOT be allowed into practical classes. This is for Health & Safety reasons – you will
have missed the H&S briefing for the session being given at the start. Please refer to section 6.1
and the course handbook for details.
1.1
Staff
Name
Room
Email Address
MB149
MB032
MB064
MB070
Ext
Number
3503
5832
3497
5809
Dr Alejandro Perdomo Lopez
Dr Alina Oknianska
Dr Chris Smith
Dr Clare Lawrence
Dr Craig Bertram
MB210
5844
CBertram@uclan.ac.uk
Mr David Griffiths
Dr David Wareing
Dr Dima Moualla
Dr Donna Daly
Dr Imeobong Antia
Dr Izabela Stasik
Dr Pete Abel
MB146
MB032
MB024
MB024
MB149
MB107A
MB146
5830
5822
3501
6480
5585
6484
5828
DMGriffiths2@uclan.ac.uk
DWareing3@uclan.ac.uk
DMoualla@uclan.ac.uk
DDaly3@uclan.ac.uk
IAntia@uclan.ac.uk
IStasik@uclan.ac.uk
PAbel@uclan.ac.uk
APerdomoLopez@uclan.ac.uk
AOknianska@uclan.ac.uk
CGSSmith@uclan.ac.uk
CLLawrence@uclan.ac.uk
Page 2 of 22
Name
Room
Dr Roshini M Mathews
Dr Stephane Berneau
MB027
MB107A
Ext
Number
5588
3590
Email Address
RMMathews@uclan.ac.uk
SBerneau@uclan.ac.uk
Staff can be contacted in several ways. The most convenient is either through Starfish or via email. Alternatively, staff can be contacted at the end of their teaching session.
2.
MODULE DETAILS
2.1
AIMS
This module will:

Provide you with the fundamental biological knowledge required to undertake the second
and third year of the degree.

To introduce you to the science that underpins our current understanding of biology,
progressing from the molecular biology of the cell, through to level of the whole
organism.

To provide you with the theoretical knowledge and practical experience of common
biological techniques to aid their understanding.
In addition to the knowledge content of the module, there are also skills which you should aim to
attain or improve by the end of the year. These include improving your competence in written
communication and the ability to apply scientific/biological information to various situations. To
achieve this, you will need to access and gather information from scientific literature and be able
to interpret scientific information. You will be assisted in your development of these skills by
attendance and participation in the lectures and also by your own private study. It must be
emphasised that the information and skills learnt in the first year are applicable to all further study.
Therefore, please do not think that what is taught in the first year will not be used again. You will
be expected to use the skills and knowledge learned in the first year throughout your course of
study.
2.2
SYLLABUS AND CONTENT

Biomolecular Structure and Function – Proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic
acids.

Cell Structure – Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells (difference between bacteria, fungi,
algae and protozoa), endosymbiont hypothesis, function and diversity of organelles.

Inheritance of the Genome – Replicating the genome, translating the genome and
synthesis of proteins, regulation of gene expression, control of the cell cycle, meiosis and
mitosis and patterns of inheritance. Evolution
Page 3 of 22

Enzymes as Biological Catalysts – Properties, structure function relationships, basic
kinetics and enzyme inhibition.

Cellular Metabolism – Principles of metabolism, ATP production, glycolysis, TCA Cycle,
fatty acid synthesis, β-oxidation, transamination, and cholesterol synthesis and
metabolism.

Inter and Intra Cellular Communication and Transport – Membrane structure and
function, hormones and receptors, chemical signals, intracellular messengers, nervous
system, endocrinology, immunology (elements of the immune system and immune
systems response to infection).

Pharmacology – Principles of drug action, receptor agonists and antagonists, drug
targets, quantitative pharmacology, molecular pharmacology, and cellular effects.
Pharmacokinetics including basic principles and application, ADME

Human Physiology – Introduction to whole body physiology, muscle and its structure
and function. Nutritional requirements of the body.

Introduction to Microbiology and Microorganisms – The major groups of microorganisms (basic principles of taxonomy). Cultivation of microorganisms. An introduction
to molecular microbiology. Use of antimicrobial drugs.
3.
TEACHING AND LEARNING
3.1
STRATEGY
The course will be delivered through a series of lectures (usually 4 hours per week) throughout
Semester 1 and Semester 2. The material taught in the lecture slots will be supplemented by
optional drop-in sessions at the end of each topic. In addition, laboratory experience will be gained
through attendance at practical sessions. The syllabus is designed to take you from first principles
to provide a sound foundation for future years.
3.2
LEARNING OUTCOMES
On successful completion of the module you will be able to:
1. Identify the major groups of biomolecules that support life’s processes and describe their
function in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
2. Outline the physiology of the major organ systems within the body and outline their roles
in the maintenance of homeostasis.
3. Describe key integrative networks within the body including communication systems in
the body.
4. Describe the basic principles of pharmacology.
5. Employ key pieces of instrumentation/technology relevant to the study of a range of
biological systems and interpret the information derived from their usage.
Page 4 of 22
3.3
ASSESSMENT STRATEGY
Within the module there is one coursework assignment and three exams. Completion of the
practical workbook [Pass/Fail] will test learning outcome 5. The three written exams [55% total]
will test learning outcomes 1 – 4.
The four components of the assessment will have typical weightings of:
Number of
Assessments
Assessment
Learning
Outcomes
assessed
1-4
Examination
Weighting Type/Duration/
%
Wordcount
(indicative only)
40%
1hr 30mins (total)
Pass/Fail
Completion and
submission of 13
work sheets
associated with
face-to-face
laboratory practicals
and 15 individual
on-line Labster
sessions (excluding
the demo).
25%
1hr
1
1
Multiple Choice Questions
Practical Workbook
1
1
Examination
35%
2, 3, and 4
1hr 30mins
5
1, 3, and 4
These assessments will test the knowledge and understanding of both theoretical and practical
parts of the syllabus and will give you the opportunity to demonstrate your understanding, writing
and oral communication skills.
The following assessments are required for this module; the numbers in parenthesis indicate the
% marks allocated from each of the following assessments: Guidance on marking criteria for year
1 written assessments can be found on Page 21 or in the course handbook
Multiple Choice Tests (1 formative and 9 summative) (40%)
During the module there will be 9 summative on-line selected response assessments, which will
test your knowledge of the material you have covered (Please see module timetable for details of
specific topics covered). Each on-line assessment will contain 10 multiple choice questions, each
with 5 responses. Only one response is correct. You will have 10 minutes to complete (1 min per
question) each assessment. Once you have answered a question, you are not permitted to return
to it. If you are entitled to additional time, please contact the module tutor with a copy of your
exam proposal.
Further details on the multiple-choice tests can be found on Blackboard.
Page 5 of 22
Coursework 1. Practical Workbook (Pass/Fail)
At the beginning of each practical session you will be provided with a series of questions
associated with the practical you are undertaking. You must answer and submit these questions
within the laboratory practical to the member of staff leading the session. Submission of work
sheets will NOT be accepted outside that particular practical. You are expected to complete
and submit worksheets for each practical session you attend. You must submit a minimum of 13
face-to-face practical worksheets and complete 15 individual on-line Labster sessions
(excluding the demo) to enable you to pass the module overall.
If you are ill, you must email YrOneBiosciAbsRep@uclan.ac.uk on the day of the missed practical
providing reason for missing the practical. However, note that the email provided is a means of
registering non-attendance and does not approve absences. See Blackboard or your course
handbook for details on attendance requirements. Please note, as there are more than 13 faceto-face laboratory practicals, no further reassessment opportunities for this coursework will be
offered. As such, we strongly encourage you to attend all available practical sessions and submit
the required worksheets. If you do not pass this coursework, you will not have the level of practical
skill required and you will not be allowed to progress into the second year.
Examination – Semester 1 (25%)
The exam will be held in the University examination week at the end of the first semester (week
beginning 9th January 2023) and will only cover work which has been taught in the first semester.
The precise date of the examination and details of its format will be available nearer to the time
of the examination.
Examination – Semester 2 (35%)
The exam will be held in the University examination weeks at the end of the second semester
(from week beginning 1st May 2022) and will only cover work which has been taught in the
second semester. The precise date of the examination and details of its format will be available
nearer to the time of the examination.
Examination Reassessments (Semester 1 and Semester 2)
Please note that exam reassessments for both semester 1 and semester 2 exams will occur in
August 2023. The precise date of the examinations will be available nearer to the time of the
examination. Please ensure that you are available during this week to undertake any resit exams.
3.4
ASSESSMENT TIMETABLE
1.
2.
3.
Assessment
Selected Response Items (MCQs)
Practical Workbook
Examination 1 (Semester 1 material)
Weighting %
40%
Pass/Fail
25%
4.
Examination 2 (Semester 2 material)
35%
Deadline
Continuous
Continuous
Wk beginning
09/01/2023
Wks beginning
01/05/2023
Page 6 of 22
3.5
PROCEDURE FOR HANDING IN WORK
Details on how and when to submit work is described below and in Section 3.4.
Work submitted after the deadline (even if it is only a few minutes late) without an authorised
extension will obtain a maximum mark of 40 % if submitted within 5 working days. Work submitted
later than 5 working days after the published submission date will be awarded a mark of 0%.
If it becomes clear to you, that due to valid reasons you will be unable to submit the work on time,
then you must apply for an extension or Mitigating circumstances (MC’s), see: Mitigating
Circumstances - how to apply for an extension if things go wrong (sharepoint.com) for guidance
on this process.
Do be aware that should you submit and have received feedback on your work, then you would
have to complete a completely separate piece of work if your MC’s are approved. The
summative MCQ tests will be completed and submitted via Blackboard (UCLan Pharmacy
Maxexam application), the face-to-face practical worksheets will be handed in at the end of your
practical session, the online-Labster sessions will be completed via Blackboard, and the exams
will be sat in Exam Week in January and May.
What should I do if I know I’ll miss the deadline with good reason?
Answer: Extension Request
If you have a good reason that you cannot complete the MCQ test in time for the deadline, discuss
the situation with the module tutor Dr Roshini M Mathews or Dr Imeobong Antia. If the reasons
are satisfactory (backed with evidence), you must complete an extension request form BEFORE
the deadline.
What happens if unforeseeable circumstances affect my work?
Answer: Mitigating Circumstances
If you miss the MCQ tests due to unforeseeable circumstances out of your control, or feel your
performance during assessment may have been affected, you must complete a Mitigating
Circumstances form (available through MyUCLan) and submit the relevant evidence (e.g. doctor’s
note) before the assessment deadline or within 3 calendar days (if the incident happened on the
day of the assessment deadline). These have to be exceptional and serious reasons e.g.
illnesses, accidents or serious family problems and supported with evidence. The mitigating
circumstances will be reviewed and if the evidence is accepted, you will be offered a sit at the test
again for maximum marks.
What happens if I missed a test?
If you miss the tests where there is no good cause (including being on holiday), you will score
zero and depending on the outcome at the exam board in May you will be asked to resit the test
for a maximum mark of 40 % during the summer resit exams.
You will not be automatically offered a resit; this is at the discretion of the exam board.
Please note, no further resits will be offered for the practical workbook.
4.
BIBLIOGRAPHY AND LEARNING SUPPORT MATERIALS
Page 7 of 22
Alberts, B., Bray, D., Hopkin, K., Johnson, A., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Roberts, K. & Walter, P.
Essential Cell Biology (Latest edition). Garland Science.
Berg, J. M., Tymoczko, J. L., Stryer, L. Biochemistry. (Latest edition). W.H. Freeman.
Campbell, N. and Reece, J. Biology. (Latest edition). Pearson.
Elliott, W.H. & Elliott, D.C. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. (Latest edition). Oxford
University Press.
Horton, H., Moran, L., Scrimgeour, K., Perry, M. & Rawn, J. Principles of Biochemistry. (Latest
edition). Pearson Education, Inc.
Madigan, M. T., Martinko, J.M., Stahl, D. and Clark, D. Brock Biology of Microorganisms. (Latest
edition). Prentice Hall International, London
Prescott, L.M., Harley, J.P. and Klein, D.A. Microbiology. (Latest edition) WCB/McGraw-Hill,
London.
Rang H.P., Dale, M.M., Ritter, J.M., Flower, R.J and Henderson, G. Rang and Dale’s
Pharmacology (Latest edition). Churchill Livingstone, London
Raven, P.H & Johnson, G.B. Biology. (Latest edition). McGraw Hill.
Silverthorn D.U. Human Physiology. (Latest edition). Pearson Benjamin Cummings, San
Francisco
Tortora, G. J., Funk B.R. and Case J. Microbiology: an introduction. (Latest edition).
Benjamin/Cummings Publishing Company
In addition, a variety of learning materials relating to this module will be available via the
University’s Blackboard facility. The World Wide Web has become a very useful source of
information in recent years and there are some excellent websites available. The e-resources site
within the UCLAN library online is a good starting point with links to online textbooks and image
banks. Other websites however may not be as reliable, so we would recommend caution before
accepting anything on the internet as correct.
Directed Reading
Note that you are expected to spend a minimum of 100 hours on directed reading. Details of
the Associated Directed Reading and the specific notes you will be required to make will be given
to you prior to each session.
Page 8 of 22
5.
MODULE TIMETABLE
The module timetable below is only a guide. Please refer to your on-line timetable for specific
details on times, dates and locations.
.
Page 9 of 22
Wk
Begin
19/09/22
26/09/22
Wk
Lecture
Lecture
3
4
Biochemicals (IA)
Biochemicals (DM)
Lecture
Lecture
Optional
Drop-in
Session
Practical
(Face-to-face)
Introduction to
Biological
Sciences (all
module team)
Biochemicals (DM)
Biochemicals
(DM)
Introductory Lab
session
(DW/IS/IA/RM)
03/10/22
5
Cell structure (SB)
Cell structure (SB)
Cell structure (SB)
Cell structure
(SB)
Session
(DM)
Introductory Lab
session
(DW/IS/IA/RM)
10/10/22
6
Cell structure (SB)
Cell structure (SB)
Cell structure (SB)
Cell structure
(SB)
Session
(SB)
Cell Structure (SB)
7
25/10/22
8
Reflection Week
9
The Genome
(CLL)
31/10/22
The Genome (IS)
The Genome (CLL)
Last updated Sep 2022
The Genome (IS)
The Genome (CLL)
The Genome (IS)
MCQ Online
Test
 Labster Demo
 Lab Safety
 Pipetting: Master the
technique
 Spectrophotometers:
Building and
exploring the
instrument
Introduction to
Biological
Sciences (all
module team)
17/10/22
Practical (Labsters)
The Genome
(IS)
Session
(IS)
The Genome
(PA)
Session
(IS)
 Chemistry Safety:
Hazard Symbols
 Solution Preparation
 Cell Structure: Cell
theory and internal
organelles
 Microscopy
 Gel Electrophoresis:
Visualize and
separate nucleic
acids
Analysis of DNA
(IS)
 Cell Division: Mitosis
and Meiosis
Biochemicals
(formative)
Cell Structure
Wk
Begin
Wk
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Optional
Drop-in
Session
Protein structure
and function (APL)
Protein structure
and function (APL)
Protein structure
and function
(APL)
Session
(CLL)
Protein structure
and function (APL)
Metabolism (DM)
Metabolism (DM)
Intracellular
Communication
(AO)
Session
(DM)
Kinetic studies of
alkaline
phosphatase
(APL)
07/11/22
10
Protein structure
and function (APL)
14/11/22
11
Protein structure
and function (APL)
Practical
(Face-to-face)
Practical (Labsters)
Mitosis (DMG)
 Titration: Neutralize
an acid lake
contamination
Proteins (APL)
12
Metabolism (DM)
Metabolism (DM)
28/11/22
13
Intracellular
Communication
(AO)
Intracellular
Communication
(AO)
Intracellular
Communication
(AO)
Intracellular
Communication
(AO)
Session
(AO)
Lipid Profile
(IA/DM)
05/12/22
14
Quantitative
Pharmacology
(CS)
Quantitative
Pharmacology
(CS)
Quantitative
Pharmacology
(CS)
Quantitative
Pharmacology
(CS)
Session
(CS)
Local Anaesthetics
(CS)
Revision (DM)
Revision (APL)
Revision (IS/CLL)
Revision
(AO/CS/SB)
Session
(CS)
12/12/22
The Genome
 Enzyme Kinetics
Session
(APL)
Intracellular
Communication
(AO)
21/11/22
MCQ Online
Test
 Sudan IV test for
lipids
Proteins
 Action Potential Lab:
Experiment with a
squid neuron
Metabolism
Intracellular
Comm/ Pharm
15
Practice Semester 1 and
Feedback (RM/IA)
19/12/22
16
26/12/22
17
02/01/23
18
09/01/23
19
Student Vacation/Independent Study
Exams
Page 11 of 22
Wk
Begin
Wk
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
16/01/23
20
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology
(DW)
23/01/23
21
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology
(DW)
Optional
Drop-in
Session
Practical
(Face-to-face)
Session
(CS)
Microbiology:
Aseptic Technique
(DW)
22
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology (DW)
Clinical
Microbiology
(DW)
Session
(CS)
Microbiology:
Disinfectants and
antiseptics (DW)
06/02/23
23
Introduction to
Anatomy and
Physiology (AO)
Anatomy and
Physiology –
Cadio/pulm (AO)
Anatomy and
Physiology GU
(DD)
Anatomy and
Physiology –
GI/liver (DD)
Session
(DW)
Microbiology:
Microscopy (DW)
13/02/23
24
20/02/23
25
26
MCQ Online
Test
 Aseptic Technique:
Culture your sample
without
contamination
 Bacterial Isolation
30/01/23
27/02/23
Practical (Labsters)
 Building GramPositive and GramNegative Cell Walls
 Gram Stain: How
stains and
counterstains work
 Gram Stain: Test
yourself in Gram
Stain Procedure
Clinical
Microbiology
Reflection Week
Anatomy and
Physiology – CNS
(CS)
Pharmacokinetics
(CS)
Anatomy and
Physiology – MS
(CS)
Pharmacokinetics
(CS)
Anatomy and
Physiology –
Senses (AOk)
Pharmacokinetics
(CS)
Anatomy – Group
1 & 2 (DD/CS/AO)
Intercellular
Communication
and
Homeostasis
(CB)
Session
(AO)
Anatomy – Group
3 & 4 (DD/CS/AO)
Anatomy and
Physiology
Page 12 of 22
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Lecture
Optional
Drop-in
Session
Practical
(Face-to-face)
Intercellular
Communication
and Homeostasis
(CB)
Intercellular
Communication
and Homeostasis
(CB)
Intercellular
Communication
and Homeostasis
(CB)
Intercellular
Communication
and
Homeostasis
(CB)
Session
(CS)
Pharmacology
(CS)
28
Intercellular
Communication
and Homeostasis
(CS)
Intercellular
Communication
and Homeostasis
(CS)
Intercellular
Communication
and Homeostasis
(CS)
Reproduction
and
Development
(SB)
Session
(CB)
Reflex and
reactions times
(AO)
20/03/23
29
Reproduction and
Development (SB)
Reproduction and
Development (SB)
Reproduction and
Development (SB)
Reproduction
and
Development
(SB)
Session
(CS)
Fitness Test (AO)
27/03/23
30
Immunology (PA)
Immunology (PA)
Immunology (PA)
Immunology
(PA)
Session
(SB)
Wk
Begin
06/03/23
13/03/23
Wk
27
Practical (Labsters)
MCQ Online
Test
 Cardiovascular
function during
exercise
Intercellular
Communication
and Homeostasis
 ELISA
Practice Semester 2 paper and
Feedback (RM)
03/04/23
31
10/04/23
32
17/04/23
33
24/04/23
34
01/05/23
35
08/05/23
36
15/05/23
37
Student Vacation/Independent Study
Revision (SB)
Revision (PA)
Revision (DW)
Revision (DW)
Revision (CS)
Revision
(AO/DD/CB)
Session
(PA)
ELISA (PA)
Reproduction and
Development/
Immunology
Exams
Page 13 of 22
6.
GENERAL GUIDANCE AND FURTHER INFORMATION
For information on University policies on subjects such as plagiarism, engagement
and assessments please see either your Course Handbook or the following section
on the UCLan website:
Student Contracts – Taught Courses - UCLan
Plagiarism is discussed within the workshops of BL1012 – Essential Skills in
Biosciences
6.1
RULES OF ENGAGEMENT / PROFESSIONALISM
You will be expected to abide by the Regulations for the Conduct of Students in the
University. UCLan expects you to behave in a respectful manner demonstrated by
using appropriate language in class, and switching mobile phones / other devices off
prior to attending classes.
If your behaviour is considered to be unacceptable, any member of staff is able to
issue an informal oral warning and the University will support staff by invoking formal
procedures where necessary. You can read more about UCLan expectations in the
Regulations for the Conduct of Students.
The University regulations are quite clear as to the types of student behaviour that
warrants punitive action, for example:
‘obstruction of, or improper interference with the functions, duties or activities
of any student, member of staff or other employee of the University or any
authorised visitor to the University’
In other words, poor conduct within a lecture, tutorial, practical class, bullying and
anti-social activities.
The School of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences has developed a general code
of conduct for all our students. They are not meant to be overbearing and will
hopefully provide a framework that ensures a very good experience for
everyone.
Attendance at Classes
All classes should start on time
You are expected to arrive at all classes fully prepared and ready for the class to begin
on time. Arriving a minimum of 5 min prior to the designated start time of the class
would, therefore, be considered the norm.
Last updated Sep 2022
For non-lab based classes that start at 9am, we recognise that there may be a need
to show a certain amount of flexibility and, for that reason, you will be allowed into a
classroom-based activity e.g. lectures/tutorials/seminars up to 15 minutes after the
actual start time. When entering the session, please ensure that you come in quietly
to minimise disruption to the rest of the class.
For non-lab/workshop-based classes that start from 10am onwards you will be
allowed into a session up to 5 minutes after the actual start time.
We accept that in exceptional circumstances delays are unavoidable. In such
circumstances it is expected that you would make best efforts to inform the member of
staff taking the class that you are delayed. This could be done by asking a colleague
to pass on a message to the staff member prior to the start of the session.
Please note, if you are too late for the first hour of a 2 h lecture, then you could join the
class when there is a break.
Please note this does not apply to laboratory practical classes, the requirements for
these are described below.
Lab Based Practicals and Practical Based Workshops
You will NOT be allowed into practical classes if you are late. This is both for
Health & Safety reasons – you will have missed the H&S briefing for the session being
given at the start, and also due to the disruption that would be caused by having to
delay the start of the class to re-explain tasks to the latecomers.
Talking: In situations e.g. lectures, where it is inappropriate for students to be talking,
it is expected that you will remain silent. Should you talk and be causing a disruption
to the class, you will be warned ONCE, if you persist in talking, you will be asked to
leave (you will then be noted as only part attendance in that class). Any students who
are disruptive to the class will have a note placed on their student record to this effect
(this may therefore influence any reference provided for that student). You will also be
required to discuss your behaviour with the Head of School.
Attendance monitoring: The scheme is extremely important and must be used in a
professional manner. It is not acceptable to enter the details of another student who
has not attended as being present. Any situations where this has happened will require
both the student who has entered another’s details, and the student whose name was
incorrectly marked as present, to be interviewed by the Head of School. Any such
instances will be placed on the records of the students involved (this may, influence
any reference provided for you where a request is made for details on your honesty or
integrity).
Mobile Phones: You must ensure that your mobile phone is turned off prior to the start
of the class. Should your mobile phone go off in the class, you will be asked to switch
it off. Should you be found playing/texting with your mobile phone during the class
Page 15 of 22
your phone will be confiscated, and you will be asked to leave the class, (you will then
be noted as only part attendance in that class) and a note will be placed on your student
record (this may, therefore, influence any reference provided for you).
Smoking: The University considers e-cigarettes in exactly the same way as it does
any tobacco product and therefore does not permit the use of e-cigarettes throughout
its premises. If you are reported to be using e-cigarettes in a class then you will be
contacted by central admin services booking an appointment for you with an
appropriate member of staff to discuss the matter with you.
Appointment with staff: Staff will either:
i) Make time available for student appointments through Starfish
ii) Alternatively, staff may indicate that you should send an email requesting an
appointment. The staff member will then email you back with a time that they
will be available to see you. Normally this will be within 2 working days.
When wishing to speak with a member of staff within their office, you should knock on
the office door and wait until you are asked to enter. It will often be the case that unless
you have made a prior appointment, staff will not be able to see you immediately.
Health, Safety and Professional Attitudes in the Laboratories
You MUST wear a lab coat at all times. If you forget your lab coat you will NOT be
allowed into the laboratory.
 Unless it is a specific requirement of the particular practical,
chewing/eating/drinking is not allowed in the laboratory.

No other items should be placed in your mouth in the laboratory e.g. pens,
pencils rulers etc. This is not allowed as it is a Health and Safety issue.

General Rubbish must not be disposed of within the laboratory bins and must
be disposed of prior to entering labs.

Bags – must be stored in a safe place, the lecturer in charge of the practical will
advise on the most appropriate place for storage. This must be adhered to.

Headgear must not be worn in laboratories, unless for religious purposes. Hair
must be tied back if long and if wearing a scarf it must be securely tucked into
your lab coat.

Lab coats – A fully fastened Howie type lab coat must always be worn. With
the exception of your name written neatly on the front, no writing is allowed on
lab coats.

Students will be advised on the appropriateness of wearing gloves for
procedures. If you are wearing gloves then you must ensure that you do not
touch you face, hair, or any bare skin with the gloved hands.

Gloved hands should not be used for opening doors
Page 16 of 22

Safety Specs – Must be worn if the member of staff considers it to be
appropriate. Students who wear glasses must also wear safety specs.

Open-toed shoes, sandals and other “summer” footwear should not be worn in
the laboratory.

Hands must be washed prior to leaving the laboratory.

It is strongly recommended that in case of contamination, any laboratory
equipment should be stored in a plastic bag away from your other belongings.
Please note:
If any student(s) is deemed to be causing disruption in a class then:
1. Lecturers will seek to manage disruption in the first instance by providing a
verbal warning followed by exclusion from the class if disruptive behaviour
continues.
2. If a student(s) has been asked to leave a class and/or is persistently disruptive,
e.g. refuses to adhere to a lecturer’s request, either in the same class or a
following class(es) the lecturer will inform Campus Admin Services.
3. The designated member of staff within the School will discuss the issue with the
relevant teaching staff.
1. The same designated member of staff within the School will then, in the
presence of a member of administrative staff, discuss the issue with the
student(s) and if deemed appropriate will issue a written warning as to their
future conduct. This will remain on the students file for 12 months. A record will
be kept in the School files.
2. In the event of further misconduct, the student will be referred to the University
with a view to excluding a student from classes, pending a formal disciplinary
hearing in line with the Regulations for the Conduct of Students.
7
FEEDBACK FROM MODULE REVIEW OF 2021/22 ACADEMIC YEAR
8
SPECIFIC GUIDANCE FOR THIS MODULE
Lecture Programme
The lecture programme is organised to enable you to link different concepts and
develop the material. It will not be used to just provide the basic information.
Consequently, it is vital that you have read and made appropriate notes from the
directed reading prior to attending the lecture. This material will be assumed to have
been covered and you will be expected to use it in your understanding of the lecture
Page 17 of 22
material and also of course in any examinations where detailed coverage of such
matter may be required.
As you will gather from the above, the directed reading and the lecture should,
therefore be considered to be a package. Consequently, the learning objectives of the
lecture will not be met merely by knowing the content of the lecture itself; the directed
reading is an integral part of the process.
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Multiple Response Assessments
The below assessment timetable is only a guide. Please refer to your on-line
timetable for specific details on times and dates.
Wk
2
3
4
Multiple Response Assessments
(10 minutes)
Assessment Availability on
Blackboard
Induction Week
Formative: Biomolecules (covers lecture
material on this topic from Wk 4)
Fri 07/10/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
Summative: Cell Structure (covers lecture
material on this topic from Wk 5 – 6)
Fri 21/10/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
9
Resit: Cell Structure
Fri 04/11/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
10
Summative: The Genome (covers lecture
material on this topic from Wk 7 & 9)
Fri 11/11/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
11
Resit: The Genome
Fri 18/11/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
12
Summative: Protein structure and Function
(covers lecture material on this topic from Wk
10 – 11)
Fri 25/11/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
13
Resit: Protein Structure and Function
Fri 02/12/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
14
Summative: Metabolism (covers lecture
material on this topic from Wk 11 – 12)
Fri 09/12/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
15
Summative: Intracellular Communication and
Quantitative Pharmacology (covers lecture
material on this topic from Wk 12 – 15)
Fri 16/12/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
5
6
7
8
16
17
18
19
Student Vacation
Exam week
Resit: Metabolism
20
Resit: Intracellular Communication and
Quantitative Pharmacology
Fri 20/01/23 btw
2.00pm – 2.30pm
Fri 20/01/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
21
22
Page 19 of 22
Wk
Multiple Response Assessments
(10 minutes)
Assessment Availability on
Blackboard
23
Summative: Clinical Microbiology (covers
lecture material on this topic from Wk 20 – 22)
Fri 10/02/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
24
Resit: Clinical Microbiology
Fri 17/02/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
26
Summative: Anatomy and Physiology (covers
lecture material on this topic from Wk 23 & 25)
Fri 03/03/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
27
Resit: Anatomy and Physiology
Fri 10/03/22 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
29
Summative: Intercellular Communication and
Homeostasis (covers lecture material on this
topic from Wk 26 – 28)
Fri 24/03/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
30
Resit: Intercellular Communication and
Homeostasis
Fri 31/03/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
25
28
31
32
33
34
35
Student Vacation
Summative: Reproduction and Development/
Immunology (covers lecture material on these
topics from Wk 28 – 30)
Resit: Reproduction and Development/
Immunology
Exams
Fri 21/03/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
Fri 28/04/23 btw
4.00pm – 4.30pm
Page 20 of 22
Marking Criteria for BSc courses
Year 1
First
Upper second
Lower second
Third
Fail
Knowledge
Makes excellent
use of taught
material.
Very Good use
of taught
material.
Some
additional
material used.
Good use of
taught
material.
Adequate use
of taught
material. No
additional
material used.
Lack of basic
knowledge
necessary for
understanding
of the topic.
Good range of
additional
material used.
Accurate factual
content of all
material
presented.
Limited use of
additional
material.
The majority of
the factual
content is
accurate.
Comprehension
Clear
understanding of
subject. Good
development of
own ideas.
Demonstrates
a very good
understanding
of the
subject. Some
development
of own ideas.
Demonstrates
a good
understanding
of the subject.
Demonstrates
an adequate
understanding
of the subject.
Does not
appear to
understand
the subject.
Application
Successful
application of
theory to practice
in all relevant
areas.
Can
successfully
apply theory to
practice in the
majority of
relevant areas.
Can
successfully
apply theory to
practice in
most of
relevant areas.
Can
successfully
apply theory to
practice in
some of the
relevant areas.
Unable to
apply theory to
practice.
Competent in
the majority of
practical work.
Competent in
most practical
work.
Competent in
some areas of
practical work.
Competent in all
practical work.
Does not
demonstrate
competence in
practical work.
Analysis
Excellent
analysis of
evidence or
results with clear
independently
derived
conclusions
Very Good
analysis of
evidence or
results with
some,
independently
derived
conclusions
Good analysis
of evidence or
results with
some logical
conclusions
Adequate
analysis of
evidence or
results.
No analysis of
evidence or
results and no
independently
derived
conclusions
Evaluation
Demonstrates a
very good level of
independent
thinking and
excellent
evaluative skills.
Demonstrates
a good level of
both
independent
thinking and
evaluation.
Demonstrates
some level of
independent
thinking.
Demonstrates
a poor/limited
level of
independent
thinking and
evaluation.
No evidence
of
independent
thinking or
evaluation.
Presentation
Excellent
Very Good.
Good.
Acceptable.
(in written
communication)
Competently
written, very well
Well written
overall. One or
Correct
structure and
Adequate level
of presentation
Poor
presentation.
Very poor
spelling and
Limited
evaluation.
Page 21 of 22
First
Upper second
Lower second
Third
Fail
presented and
easy to read. No
errors in spelling
or sentence
structure.
two spelling
and/or
sentence
structure
errors. Clearly
presented and
good structure.
Easy to read.
presentation
with a few
spelling and/or
sentence
structure
errors.
Readable.
but with a
significant
number of
errors of
spelling and/or
sentence
structure. Not
always easy to
read.
sentence
structure. Very
difficult to
read.
Voice clear,
nicely paced,
narrative is wellstructured, and
information is
presented in a
good format.
Very good visual
aids.
Voice is clear
for the majority
of the
presentation
and not
rushed.
Voice for most
of the
presentation is
clear. Variable
pacing.
Voice and
delivery are
acceptable.
Rushed and
unclear in
some parts.
Limited
structure to
narrative.
Adequate
visual aids.
Voice unclear
and
presentation is
rushed.
Narrative and
visual aids
poorly
structured.
Numeracy
Competent in all
those areas
relevant to the
topic.
Competent in
the majority of
the areas
relevant to the
topic.
Competent in
most of the
areas relevant
to the topic.
Competent in
limited areas
relevant to the
topic.
Not competent
in all areas
relevant to the
topic.
Group work
Excellent
communication
skills.
Management and
performance of
tasks is well
organised. Works
well as a member
of the team.
Very good
communicatio
n skills.
Management
and
performance
of tasks is
generally well
organised.
Generally
works well as
a member of
the team.
Good
communication
skills.
Management
and
performance of
tasks is
occasionally
disorganised
and does not
always engage
with the team.
Adequate
communicatio
n skills. Takes
some
responsibility
of tasks within
the team but is
not always
engaged or
organised.
Poor
communicatio
n skills.
Disorganised.
Does not work
well with the
group.
Year 1
Oral
communication
(formal
presentation)
Generally wellstructured and
presented with
good visual
aids.
Narrative
lacking some
structure.
Generally
visual aids are
good.
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