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Module Specifications..

Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024

Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title How life works 2
Module Code BE102
School School of Biotechnology
Module Co-ordinatorSemester 1: Janosch Heller
Semester 2: Janosch Heller
Autumn: Janosch Heller
Module TeachersPaul Cahill
Paula Meleady
Denise Harold
Linda Holland
Janosch Heller
Ronan O'Toole
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
None
Array
Description

Following on from module BE101, this module introduces genetics and animal physiology.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe nucleic acid structure and the molecular mechanism of DNA replication
2. Outline the stages on prokaryotic and eukaryotic transcription
3. Explain the process of translation and the role of the genetic code
4. Describe how mutations can give rise to functional consequences and the general features of DNA repair systems
5. Outline the key events of mitosis and meiosis
6. State Mendel’s laws of inheritance and outline the characteristics of dominant, recessive, and X-linked traits
7. Outline the steps of gene cloning, the polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing
8. Describe the general features of cell communication
9. Discuss the concept of homeostasis
10. Describe the general principles of digestion
11. Discuss hormones and their mechanisms of action
12. Describe the role of innate immunity and acquired immunity in protecting the body
13. Describe the circulatory system, the excretory system, the respiratory system, and the nervous system
14. Outline the processes of gametogenesis and fertilisation



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24theory and applications of genetics and animal physiology
Online activity18On-line reading assignments in genetics and physiology
Tutorial10Tutorials in genetics and physiology
Independent Study73Independent learning of concepts
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Introduction to Genetics
DNA structure and replication; Transcription and Translation; DNA mutation and repair; The cell cycle, mitosis and meiosis; Mendel’s laws of inheritance; Dominant, recessive and X-linked inheritance; Genetic Technology

Introduction to Animal Physiology
Cell communication; Homeostasis; Digestion; The immune system; The endocrine system; The circulatory system; The excretory system; The nervous system; The respiratory system; Human reproduction

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment20% Examination Weight80%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Completion of online activityFormative assessment through: 1. LearnSmart: "an interactive study tool that adaptively assesses students’ skill and knowledge levels to track which topics students have mastered and which require further instruction and practice. Based upon student progress, it then adjusts the learning content based on their knowledge strengths and weaknesses, as well as their confidence level around that knowledge." 2. Blooms Taxonomy aligned MCQs.20%Every Week
Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 3
Indicative Reading List

  • Robert Brooker and Eric Widmaier and Linda Graham and Peter Stiling: 0, Biology (McGraw-Hill) by Brooker,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
ACBSc in Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sc.
AFUAge Friendly University Programme
ASBSc in Analytical Science
BGEBiological Sciences General Entry
BTBSc in Biotechnology
CGEChemical Sciences General Entry
ESTBSc in Environmental Science & Tech
GCBBSc in Genetics & Cell Biology
PEBB.Sc Physical Education with Biology
SHSAOStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
SMPSCSingle Module Prof. Science and Health
Date of Last Revision01-JUL-10
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