Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
Biology, Chemistry or Physical Education A level or equivalent
| BLGY1115 | Introduction to Cell Biology: from Molecules to Cells and Ti |
| FOBS1135 | The Basis of Life |
FOBS1135T
This module is not approved as a discovery module
The Basis of Life aims to provide our students with a firm understanding of the properties of molecules and macromolecules that underpin Life on Earth. Going from some basic chemical and molecular principles, students will learn the underlying properties that drive key processes in the cell. This is fundamental knowledge that underpins life on Earth that all bioscientists should know, hence this is a key first year module for most of our students.
This module aims to provide learners with a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to the cellular level. Learners enrolled across a broad range of programmes will take the module and so there will be some revision of concepts from A-level, which will be built upon to provide up to date knowledge of macromolecular and ultimately cellular behaviour. Teaching on the module will be split into learning units focused on key aspects of molecular, macromolecular or cellular function.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Distinguish between the major macromolecules and recognise their building blocks.
2. Explain the diversity of cells, including their structure and function on the molecular and cellular scale.
3. Apply knowledge of molecular and cellular mechanisms to various examples in health and disease.
On successful completion of the module students will:
1. Gather information from a range of literature sources, manage their time effectively, and use online resources to enhance their learning.
2. Develop skills in problem solving, integration of knowledge, and communication.
The Basis of Life will be split into 9 learning units covering:
1. The chemistry of life
2. From genes to proteins
3. Protein sorting
4. Protein structure and function
5. Membranes and signalling
6. Enzymes
7. Bioenergetics and Metabolism
8. Cytoskeleton and the cell cycle
9. The microbial world
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 35 | 1 | 35 |
| Independent online learning hours | 16 | ||
| Private study hours | 149 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 35 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Several text book chapters will be recommended and a portfolio of online resources will be provided to guide students during term-time with respect to revision. A number of workshops and self-guided learning opportunities will help support the preparations for coursework and integration of information across the Semester 1 modules.
Students will be provided with formative MRQs for each learning unit with automated feedback allowing them to practice and evaluate their understanding throughout the module. There will be lectures that will cover similar style SAQs to the coursework assessment.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| In-course Assessment | - | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 50 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Standard exam (closed essays, MCQs etc) | 1.0 Hrs Mins | 50 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 50 | |
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: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team