Module and Programme Catalogue

Search site

Find information on

2020/21 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

BLGY1238 Exploring Whole Organism Biology in the Lab and Field

10 creditsClass Size: 80

Module manager: Dr Henry Greathead
Email: h.m.r.greathead@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2020/21

Pre-requisite qualifications

Biology A level or equivalent

This module is mutually exclusive with

BLGY1234Practical Genetics

Module replaces

BLGY1236 Practical Applied Biology

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module provides hands on experience of conducting research in whole organism biology in both the laboratory and field. A range of methodologies, from the sampling of organisms in different habitats to the application of molecular genetic techniques for organism identification, will be used to address evolutionary, ecological and environmental questions, and demonstrate uses of biotechnology.

Objectives

An understanding of the experimental techniques that underpin study of whole organism biology. The key objective of this module is to provide training in a range of experimental techniques, and data collection, analysis and interpretation. Through this training technical competence will be developed.

Learning outcomes
On completion of the module students should be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental biology underpinning the practicals;
- Competently use techniques used in whole organism biology research;
- Analyse and interpret results;
- Communicate results.

Skills outcomes
- Good Laboratory Practice;
- Core techniques for the study of whole organism biology.


Syllabus

The module is practical-based.
Practicals include:
- Digestive physiology and environmental impact of livestock farming;
- Microbial fermentation and fractional distillation;
- Arthropod diversity and molecular genotyping;
- Plant identification and invertebrate diversity.

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Practical63.0018.00
Private study hours82.00
Total Contact hours18.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)100.00

Private study

Private study will include completion of coursework elements (30h);
Background reading (49h) in support of the online practicals (reading handouts and associated literature) and in researching coursework elements.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Feedback for the MCQ online assessed practicals is provide online. The practical worksheet is annotated and returned to students.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
In-course AssessmentOn-line practical 'Digestive physiology and environmental impact of livestock farming' and submission of worksheet.40.00
In-course AssessmentParticipation mark, including online practicals requiring submission of a photo album recording taxonomic range of organisms that display mimcry and crypsis (pass/fail); Additional online practicals also contribute to the mark - 'Exploring arthropod diversity' and 'Biodiversity & Habitats'.10.00
In-course MCQOnline time-limited exam50.00
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: 11/05/2021

Disclaimer

Browse Other Catalogues

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team.PROD

© Copyright Leeds 2019