BL1101 Biology 1
(BL1101 online module handbook version 155)
This module is an introduction to molecular and cellular biology. It covers cell diversity and the origins of life, cellular structures and fundamental processes. The central dogma of molecular biology is investigated through the examination of the structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins, and how this knowledge led to modern developments in biotechnology. The final section of the module gives an introduction into molecular and population genetics with an emphasis on the process of evolution. Throughout the module, the lecture material is complemented by practical classes where biological laboratory techniques are taught.
*Credits: 20*
Semester: 1†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:The student must have Higher or A-Level (or equivalent) in Biology or Human Biology at grade B or better*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL1101: Assessment
Coursework = 100%.*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL1101: Contributing Staff †
BL1101: Learning Outcomes †
The aim of this module is to introduce you to fundamental concepts in biology related to cells, biological molecules, genetics and evolution.The module is divided into several sections covering: Cells & Genetics, Biological molecules & biotechnology, Energy & metabolism, Evolution
Students completing module BL1101 successfully should be able to:
- Understand the basic structure and function of cells, how cells originated, and their organelles.
- Understand Mendelian genetics and its extensions, be able to map genes from linkage data.
- Understand the basic structure of DNA and RNA and their role in protein synthesis.
- Have a general understanding of bioinformatics.
- Have a general understanding of modern biotechnology, including uses of recombinant DNA.
- Understand what proteins are and how they function.
- Understand the usage of energy in living systems and the basic features of metabolism.
- Understand basic principles governing biological evolution.
BL1101: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Agarose gel
- Biomolecule isolation/characterisation
- Compound Microscopy
- Database interogation
- DNA isolation
- Handling microbes
- Pipetting
- Transformation
Transferable Skills
- Group discussion - participating
- "Full" practical write-up (Intro, Methods, Results, Discussion)
- "Short" practical write-up (e.g. completed worksheet)
- Short essay (1000-2000 words)
- Finding information on the web
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Sourcing figures/tables
- Generating questions
- Lab safety awareness
- Peer assessment
- Problem-solving questions
- Calculations/equations
- Concentrations
- Decimal places
- Descriptive statistics
- Dilutions
- Powers of ten
- Produce tables
- SI units
- Significant figures
- Volumes
- Lab or field notebook
- Designing experiments
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
