BI1BG3-Practical Biochemistry

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5ECTS credits]
Terms in which taught: Summer
Module Convenor: Dr SC Andrews
Pre-requisites: BI1BA1 and BI1BB2
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: BI1EF23
Module version for: 2008/9

Email: s.c.andrews@reading.ac.uk

Aims:
1. To train students in important laboratory skills, many of which will be used in laboratory-based practicals in subsequent modules.
2. To provide an understanding of key methodology.
3. To reinforce knowledge and understanding of important concepts in biochemistry by experimentation
4. To provide an illustration of the link between experimentation and scientific knowledge
5. To provide students with the analytical skills required to interpret experimental data

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:
1. perform a variety of experimental techniques in biochemistry as part of a group
2. record, analyse and interpret experimental data
3. perform basic biochemical calculations
4. present and describe experimental results accurately

Additional outcomes:
The students should obtain a deeper understanding of biochemistry though the application of practical approaches, and will learn to work as part of a group

Outline content:
This course is entirely based on laboratory practical sessions. Students will engage in a series of practicals that will introduce important biochemistry techniques and will illustrate key biochemical principles that will be of value in subsequent modules. Students will be introduced to ‘good laboratory practice’ (GLP) which they will be expected to follow throughout the practical sessions. There will be approximately 36 hours of practical and a discussion/tutorial session. Techniques encountered will include: spectroscopy; protein assay; enzyme assay; electrophoresis; chromatography; immunological methods; use of radio-isotopes; immunoassay; measurement of gene expression; microbiological methods (culturing methods).

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Students will spend ~36 hours performing experiments in the laboratory. They will submit nine short practical write-ups for assessment and will be expected to use their free time to engage in background reading. Tutorials will be arranged to assist in the practical write ups.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures			0
Tutorials/seminars			4
Practicals			36
Other contact (eg study visits)
Total hours			40
Number of essays or assignments			8
Other (eg major seminar paper)

Assessment:
Coursework
Eight practical write-ups: 100%

Relative percentage of coursework : 100%

Examinations
No examination.

Requirements for a pass
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements
Alternative coursework