Monash College Handbook

BIOLOGY FOUNDATIONS (MCD 1610)

Purpose

This unit introduces and reinforces the fundamentals of biology by investigating components that make up the mammalian body and exploring basic physiological processes. Students are instructed in basic practical laboratory skills with the aim of understanding the importance of investigative work in the biological sciences.

Prerequisites

Students should have completed an equivalent to Victorian VCE Year 11 Biology, Units 1 & 2

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. carry out laboratory based practical work using a compound microscope and prepare a scientific report.
2. critically evaluate scientific information from a range of sources.
3. explain the relationship between the smallest particles of life and how these combine to form water and other compounds.
4. describe the biochemical nature of the biomacromolecules.
5. identify the organelles in eukaryotic cells and summarise the function and contribution to cellular activity.
6. describe the structure of the cell membrane and the features that facilitate transport of substances across the membrane.
7. explain the activities of enzymes in facilitating cellular chemical reactions.
8. describe the role of ATP and each of the key energy-producing processes in cellular respiration and summarise the steps involved and products of each process.
9. explain the mechanisms which maintain the body’s internal environment and the principles of homeostasis via the nervous and endocrine systems.
10. describe the components involved in communication systems of the body, and the mechanism of integration of external and internal signals.
11. explain the components of the respiratory system and how they are involved in gas exchange and transport throughout the body.
12. describe the structural features of the human cardiovascular system and understand how the heart and blood vessels deliver blood throughout the body.
13. describe the organs and tissues which comprise the human digestive system. Summarise the function of each component in relation to the process of digestion.
14. investigate recent advances in biotechnology relating to drug development and medical diagnosis.

Assessment

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