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2018/19 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

BLGY1234 Practical Genetics

10 creditsClass Size: 96

Module manager: Dr Christopher West
Email: c.e.west@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2018/19

Pre-requisite qualifications

Biology A level or equivalent

Pre-requisites

BLGY1232Introduction to Genetics

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

DNA isolation, PCR and restriction digests are fundamental analytical techniques and used in molecular cloning. This module will provide hands on experience of these core techniques, in addition to applying the theory of Mendelian genetics, cytology and the principles of genetic linkage to real-world genetics problems.

Objectives

An understanding of the experimental techniques that underpin knowledge of genetic mechanisms in living organisms.

Learning outcomes
On completion of the module students will be able to:
- demonstrate the principles of genetic segregation;
- provide experience of genetic analysis in bacteria and eukaryotes;
- use techniques used in molecular genetic manipulation and analysis;
- explain how PCR works and its applications in molecular biology.

Skills outcomes
- Good Laboratory Practice;
- Core molecular biology techniques.


Syllabus

This module will provide core genetics practical skills to support the Introduction to Genetics module. This will include phenotypic analysis to provide an understanding of Mendelian segregation. Molecular skills will be provided through experience of DNA isolation, restriction analysis, agarose gel electrophoresis and recombinant DNA technology (molecular cloning). Students will analyse purified DNA by PCR for the detection of transgenes. PCR will also be used to track a mutant allele linked to a CAPS marker (cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence). This will allow students to predict disease pre-disposition in a family. In the final practical students will learn cytological methods to identify genetic disease.

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
On-line Learning13.003.00
Lecture71.007.00
Practical73.0021.00
Private study hours69.00
Total Contact hours31.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)100.00

Private study

Private study will include completion of coursework elements (30 hours), background reading (39 hours) in support of the practicals (reading handouts and associated literature) and in researching coursework elements.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Feedback is provided by staff and demonstrators during the practical as progress is monitored. Feedback for the MCQ-assessed practicals is provided online. The practical report is annotated and returned to students.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Practical ReportData analysis - PCR in diagnosis - annotated lab write up (4 pages max)20.00
In-course MCQOpen Book: Mendelian segregation20.00
Computer ExerciseData analysis - Karyotyping20.00
In-course MCQOpen Book: Meet the DNA20.00
In-course MCQOpen Book: Restriction analysis20.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 31/05/2018

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