Module manager: Jurgen Denecke
Email: j.denecke@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
Biology A level or equivalent
BLGY1327
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces and develops core practical research and scientific skills that students will use throughout their degree program. A series of lectures will first lead to a theoretical familiarisation with a broad range of standard laboratory and field practices including routine calculations, analytical methods to quantify biological processes and measure biodiversity in the field. This also includes concepts of evolution, physiology, and morphology. Students will acquire an understanding of scientific experimentation design and process, to the extent that they appreciate the value of suitable controls and critical thinking. Practicals introduce manual skills and safe working practises in laboratory and field environments, trouble-shooting, the importance of independent replicates and maintenance of accurate records of findings. Practicals will address processes at the molecular, cellular, whole organism and population level within the broader remit of whole organism studies in the laboratory and in the field.
This module introduces core skills for biology and whole organism studies in the laboratory and field. Teaching will be practical-based and supported by introductory lectures that provide the concepts and preparatory material. The major objectives are to provide you with foundational knowledge and experience of lab work across a range of different topics and techniques.
Techniques for research on molecules, cells, whole organisms and populations will be covered. Core concepts include an understanding of scientific principles, the scientific method, basic calculations needed for lab work and developing competency in basic lab skills.
On completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Demonstrate a range of skills for working with different biological materials, including safe and effective data collection in the field.
2. Demonstrate knowledge, practical experience and competency of basic and intermediate laboratory and field techniques.
3. Demonstrate the use of mathematical calculations (e.g. percentages, molarities and dilution factors) and apply appropriately during laboratory and field work
4. Apply relevant theoretical knowledge of fundamental molecular, cellular and whole organism biology to laboratory and field work.
Skills Learning Outcomes
1. Demonstrate Good Laboratory Practice, ethical consideration and adherence to health & safety guidelines when working in laboratory and field environments.
2. Collect, analyse, interpret and communicate the results of laboratory and field work appropriately.
This module will provide core practical skills to support programmes within the biological sciences. This will include an introduction to good laboratory practice, including working with solutions, record keeping and health and safety considerations. Core skills training will be provided for the use of essential lab equipment, including balances, incubators, centrifuges and microscopes. Laboratory techniques will be covered which will include the development of skills in analytical biochemistry, protein purification and analysis, and enzyme activity assays. Fundamental field skills will be covered, including working with live material, whole organism biology and core fieldwork techniques.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fieldwork | 4 | 3 | 12 |
| Lecture | 16 | 1 | 16 |
| Practical | 10 | 3 | 30 |
| Private study hours | 142 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 58 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Semester 1: Practicals in Semester 1 will be accompanied by a specific feedback session at the end of each week to highlight class weaknesses and strengths and methods to improve performance in the future. Feedback is also provided by staff and demonstrators during the practicals.
Semester 2: Feedback will be given during the practicals by staff and demonstrators, with activities during the class providing students with an opportunity to evaluate their learning.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Practical Exam (in course) | 50 |
| Coursework | Lab report - 1000 words | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 03/03/2025
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