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 Assessment
10.00%
Practical
40.00%
End of Module Formal Examination
50.00%
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