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  3. Biology of Cells and Organisms

Biology of Cells and Organisms (BIOL10004)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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This objective of this subject is to familiarise students with modern concepts of cell and organismal biology, including structure and function of multicellular organisms including cell function, systems involved in energy transformations, nutrition, water uptake, excretion, gas exchange, circulation, and immune responses; plant and animal reproduction and development; mechanisms involved in responsiveness and coordination: hormonal control in plants and animals, and nervous systems in animals; and animal movement and behaviour.

Intended learning outcomes

At the completion of this subject, students should:



  • be aware of the basic processes of life.
  • be familiar with the structure and function of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
  • understand the cellular processes for harvesting energy: respiration and photosynthesis.
  • have a basic knowledge of the structure and function of plants, plant growth, reproduction and defence mechanisms.
  • understand that multicellularity in animals depends on homeostasis.
  • have a basic knowledge of animal structure and function of digestion, circulation, respiration, excretion, reproduction, immune system, nervous and endocrine systems.
  • have a basic knowledge of stem cells and their therapeutic potential.
  • understand the evolutionary processes that bring about biological diversity, and the ecological interactions that have shaped particular adaptations.
  • appreciate the different approaches to the study of animal behaviour, and understand how and why animals behave the way they do.
  • understand the relationships between tissues and organs in the whole animal and appreciate how and why organisms are studied.
  • have developed skills in laboratory procedures such as correct use of microscopes; recording observations; hypothesis testing; data analysis, presentation and interpretation.

Generic skills

At the completion of this subject, students should:

  • be able to critically assess and assimilate new knowledge to use these skills to solve problems
  • be able to complete basic manipulations with laboratory equipment
  • develop skills in recording observations, analysis and interpretation of data, and dissection techniques.
  • be able to work in small groups.

Last updated: 3 October 2024