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Foundational Biology: Life's Machinery (BIOL10008)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1 - On Campus
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This subject builds on students’ prior knowledge, exploring the diversity and unity of life through the lens of five core concepts: evolution, cell theory, regulation, transmission of information and interconnectedness in biological systems. These concepts will be studied at the molecular, cellular, and individual level. Topics will include the evolution of life from the abiotic to the individual, the molecular and physical structure of the cell, cell replication and gene expression, homeostasis and physiological systems regulation, respiration, and interactions within and between organisms. 

Intended learning outcomes

At the completion of this subject students should be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of the evolution of life from the molecular level to the multicellular;
  • recognize cells as the fundamental structural and functional unit of life with respect to their molecular machinery, cellular function and cellular interaction;
  • explain the importance of information being conserved, or modified within, and transferred between, cells and organisms;
  • describe the chemical nature of biological processes and the way cells and organisms regulate their (internal) environment;
  • identify biology as an evolving science based on concepts developed from observations, experiments and data analysis; and
  • explain the interconnectedness and interacting nature of living systems by drawing on examples of networks at the molecular, cellular and individual levels;

Generic skills

On completion of this subject students should be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of and apply the scientific process in a theoretical and practical setting;
  • use appropriate protocols for making observations and recording data;
  • competently use appropriate equipment;
  • use quantitative reasoning and analysis;
  • integrate biology with other disciplines;
  • collaborate effectively in a team;
  • understand the social, legal and ethical implications of studying and practising biology and of biological discoveries; and
  • demonstrate well developed information literacy and communication skills.

Last updated: 14 January 2026