Module Title:Nutritional Biochemistry
Language of Instruction:English
Credits: 10
NFQ Level:6
Module Delivered In 2 programme(s)
Teaching & Learning Strategies: This module will be taught in three theory classes of one hour duration and the equivalent of a two hour practical class per week. Classes may take the form of formal lectures or tutorial-type sessions. A range of teaching techniques will be used as appropriate, including worksheets, PowerPoint and other presentations. Students will be encouraged to learn by active engagement in group work and class discussions. Material presented at theory classes will be reinforced, discussed and developed during practical classes.
Module Aim: The aim of this module is to give the student a sound knowledge of the structure, functions and metabolism of nutrients and to develop basic biochemical practical and reporting skills, with due regard to Health and Safety.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner should be able to:
LO1 Describe the classification, structure and functions of major biochemical molecules
LO2 Outline the control of metabolism and the central metabolic pathways
LO3 Carry out basic laboratory techniques with due regard to safety
LO4 Prepare scientific laboratory reports
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
4504 SCIE H1111 Chemistry
Incompatible Modules
These are modules which have learning outcomes that are too similar to the learning outcomes of this module.
No incompatible modules listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Requirements
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is mandatory before enrolment in this module is allowed.
No requirements listed
 

Module Content & Assessment

Indicative Content
Basic Biochemical Systems
The cell system, the biomembrane, the functions of water
Amino Acids and Proteins
Structure of amino acids, essential and nonessential amino acids. Polymerisation and protein structure. The functions of proteins
Enzymology
The definition and mode of action of enzymes. The factors influencing enzyme activity
Carbohydrates
Classification, structure and functions of glucose, starch, glycogen and cellulose. Non-starch polysaccharides
Lipids
The structure and functions of simple, complex and derived lipids. Essential fatty acids. The digestion and transport of lipids
Vitamins
The biochemical functions of fat-soluble and water–soluble vitamins
Minerals
Macrominerals and trace minerals, biochemical role of minerals
Metabolism and Bioenergetics
Introduction to metabolism and the control of metabolism. Metabolic pathways; Glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, the electron transfer chain, β-oxidation. The generation of ATP. Ketosis. Amino acid catabolism. Gluconeogenesis
Practical
Classes will cover Health & Safety regulations and requirements, relevant calculations and scientific reporting. Students will develop skills in the use of biochemical equipment such as pipettes, pH meters and UV spectrophotometers as well as basic laboratory techniques such as biochemical analysis, chromatography and the study of enzyme activity
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment10.00%
Practical40.00%
End of Module Formal Examination50.00%
Special Regulation
Students must achieve a minimum grade (35%) in both practical/CA and final examination
Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Examination One short continuous assessment, in class 1,2 10.00 n/a
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Practical/Skills Evaluation Practical Laboratory Book 3,4 40.00 Every Week
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Assessment Description Outcome addressed % of total Assessment Date
Formal Exam Two hour written final examination. 1,2 50.00 End-of-Semester

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload
Lecture 12 Weeks per Stage 3.00
Laboratory 12 Weeks per Stage 2.00
Estimated Learner Hours 15 Weeks per Stage 12.67
Total Hours 250.00
 

Module Delivered In

Programme Code Programme Semester Delivery
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CW_SASAC_B Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Strength and Conditioning 3 Mandatory