Module manager: Michael Harrison
Email: m.a.harrison@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
| BIOL1112 | The Molecules of Life |
| BLGY1115 | Introduction to Cell Biology: from Molecules to Cells and Ti |
| FOBS1135 | The Basis of Life |
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 9 learning units focussed on key aspects of molecular, macromolecular or cellular function. Core content will be provided to learners through pre-recorded lectures which will be augmented with in-person workshops throughout the semester. There will be one workshop for every two hours of pre-recorded content. In these workshops learners will be provided with opportunities to assess their level of understanding whilst also gaining more in-depth knowledge from the lecturers that are expert in the topics being covered.
On completion of this module, students should be able to :
1. Explain the diversity of cells, including their structure and function on the molecular and cellular scale.
2. Appreciate the genetic and biochemical approaches involved in the research process.
3. Apply knowledge of molecular and cellular mechanisms to various examples in health and disease.
Skills Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
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 throughout the module through engagement with evidence-based reports and application of knowledge questions.
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
Each learning unit will consist of 2 to 6 hours of pre-recorded content with an on-campus workshop scheduled for every 2 hours of pre-recorded content.
| 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 and MCQs will be provided to guide students during term-time with respect to revision. A range of blended learning activities will run in parallel with the module to provide opportunities for self-guided learning and formative assessment.
- Preparation for coursework
- Using online materials provided for each topic
Reading, revision, private study, preparation for examinations.
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 is no reading list for this module
Last updated: 30/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team