Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

If you are pursuing one of the life science course options, you will require an appreciation of biological processes at the molecular level. This unit extends basic organic chemistry theory to the level of the biological macromolecules. A coordinated synthesis of the structure and function of these molecules is essential for understanding the metabolism of living cells. This biomolecular unit is a fundamental prerequisite for many advanced units in the health and life sciences.

Aims

The aim of this unit is to provide you with a clear understanding of the structure and function of the biological macromolecules that are essential to the metabolic and physiological processes of living cells in health and disease.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, you should:
1. Reflect upon the structural and chemical differences between classes of biological molecules and relate their diverse functional roles to intracellular location.
2. Understand the principles behind the separation of biological macromolecules in complex mixtures, reinforce your ability to manipulate small aqueous volumes with accuracy and precision, and gain competence in using equipment available in a contemporary biochemistry laboratory.
3. Integrate the fundamental role of enzymes with their mechanisms of action, how they can be controlled and how defects in enzyme function can impact on human health.
4. Gain a comprehension of how all biological processes have energy constraints.
5. Refine your skills in maintaining clear, concise and accurate written records of your scientific experimentation.

Content

In this unit, the content includes:

· Basic structure and biochemistry of nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates.
· Structural and functional properties of amino acids, peptides and proteins.
· General enzymology and simple enzyme kinetics.
· Thermodynamics of enzyme-catalysed reactions.
· Bioenergetics and ATP synthesis.
· Separation, detection and quantification of biological macromolecules.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

The unit comprises two hours of lectures and two hours of practical classes each week. Particular emphasis is placed on your understanding of fundamental concepts (not content per se) since specialisation is built into subsequent biochemistry units. Sessions adopt a range of multimedia delivery techniques, where appropriate, to explain complex concepts. Lecturers and teaching staff are available during practical classes for more personal tuition and tutoring. You are encouraged to broaden your horizons through analysis and reflection using additional resources (textbook-based and internet-based) as directed by the unit website.

Assessment

You are required to achieve an overall passing grade in summative assessment items comprising two theory examinations, a take-home assignment and two laboratory notebook inspections.Results for summative assessment items normally will be provided to you within a week of the assessment due date. Your practical demonstrators are available each week to provide feedback on laboratory work Scores and detailed formative feedback on lab notebook inspections are provided immediately upon evaluation in the scheduled class.
A series of non-assessed multiple choice quizzes on the unit's website provide practice questions and answers for you that are similar to questions used in summative assessment. These on-line quizzes are for your formative learning only.

Assessment name: Examinations (Theory)
Description: (1) Progress Theory Exam, multiple-choice (20%). Summative and Formative. (2) End of Semester Theory Exam; multiple-choice and short answer questions (30%) Summative.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3 & 4.
Weight: 50%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Mid and End Semester

Assessment name: Log/Workbook
Description: Evaluation of laboratory notebooks which have been constructeddevelopedwhere experimental work has been recorded during the semester and assessed on TWO occasions during the semester; Summative and Formative. Feedback on management and maintenance of laboratory practical notebooks is provided by demonstrators throughout the semester.
Relates to objectives: 2 & 5.
Weight: 25%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Early & Late Sem

Assessment name: Assignment
Description: Assignment; Summative. To be submitted during the semester.
Relates to objectives: 2 & 3.
Weight: 25%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Mid semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Unit Learning Website 'www.life.sci.qut.edu.au/epping/LSB308ScROLL/308.html'
Textbook

The prescribed text is BIOCHEMISTRY. 7th edn. M.K.Campbell and S.O.Farrell eds. ISBN 13: 978-0-8400-6858-3 BROOKS/Cole CENGAGE Learning

However, With the growing availability of competitively-priced, on-line/interactive textbooks and electronic study resources, you are directed to Dr Epping's ScROLL textbook website for the latest advice in selecting a textbook from a broad range of options to best suit your Course/Major enrolment, career aspirations and present financial situation.

www.life.sci.qut.edu.au/epping/LSB308ScROLL/308textbooks.html

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Risk assessment statement

This unit includes a laboratory component. In order that you become proficient in necessary practical skills, you will be trained in the handling of equipment, materials and specimens normally associated with this discipline. You will be provided with the latest edition of a comprehensive safety booklet pertinent to life sciences laboratories and specifically to this unit, and you will be required to adhere to the safety procedures detailed in it. You are referred to the university's health and safety web site http://www.hrd.qut.edu.au/healthsafety/index.jsp
for further information. If you have an underlying health condition you are encouraged to consult the lecturer in charge of the unit, as you may be required to take additional precautions on occasions.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 01-Aug-2012