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Biology Teaching and Learning Centre · ANU College of Science and Medicine
This course provides an introduction to the biochemical, cellular, genetic and evolutionary aspects of life on Earth. The program consists of four modules: (a) The Chemistry of Life, which covers the chemical foundations that underpin cellular life; (b) The Cell, which covers the structure and replication of cells, the basic unit of life on Earth. This section will also examine key aspects of cellular metabolism; (c) Genetics, which covers the inheritance of DNA, the genetic material of life, and charts how the information stored in DNA is decoded into the proteins that facilitate cellular biology; (d) Mechanisms of Evolution, which provides an introduction to the processes that have generated the diversity of life on Earth. The course will draw on examples from research being undertaken at ANU, and will highlight how biological knowledge can be used to address societal, environmental, technological and medical challenges facing humanity. Practicals in the course will provide students with fundamental research skills in biochemistry, cellular biology and genetics. This course provides a critical foundation for further study in biology and medicine, and is a standalone course accessible to students across the University. Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but will be assessed separately.
Quizzes
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 5
Practical assessments
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Final exam - hurdle requirement to achieve at least 40% on the exam
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 5
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours throughout the semester including: - Face-to face components, which will consist of approximately 36 x 1 hour lectures per semester (e.g. 3 x 1 hour lectures per week) and approximately 24 hours of workshops/labs (e.g. 8 x 3hr sessions throughout the semester). - Approximately 70 hours of self-directed study which will include preparation for lectures through engagement with the on-line textbook and completing practical assessments. Students are expected to actively participate in course activities. Other Information The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website. Biology is an experimental discipline requiring the development of hands-on laboratory skills. It is expected that students will attend all laboratory sessions and submit all associated reports. Where there are extenuating circumstances that prevent a student from attending a lab, missed attendance has to be agreed with the course convener and appropriate supporting documentation submitted through the appropriate channels. There is a minimum lab attendance threshold of 80%. 80% of practical assessments must be submitted and must demonstrate a reasonable attempt to satisfy the requirements of the assignment.
Urry, L.A., Cain, M.L., Wasserman, S.A., Minorsky, P.V., Reece, J.B. and Jackson, M., 2021. Campbell biology: Australian and New Zealand version. 12th ed. Melbourne: Pearson Australia.