Unit Title: Fundamental Concepts in Cellular Biology

Level: Three

Credit Value: 3

Unit Code: CBB424

Grade Descriptors: 1, 2, 7

Type: Academic subject content

This unit has 3 learning outcomes.

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

The learner will: The learner can:

1. Understand the nature of 1.1. Differentiate between the various levels
multicellular organisms. of organisation in two named body
systems.

2. Understand the basic structure
and function of the cell.
2.1. Explain how the structure of the main
organelles is related to their function.
2.2. Compare and contrast osmosis,
diffusion, active transport and bulk
transport.
2.3. Make precise measurements of the
effect of a given chemical on biological
materials.

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 3. Understand the processes of cell
division, gene expression and
protein synthesis.
3.1. Outline the relationship between genes,
DNA, and chromosomes.
3.2. Compare and contrast meiosis and
mitosis.
3.3. Explain the roles of DNA and RNA in
protein synthesis.
3.4. Evaluate how a gene mutation affects
structure and function of named
proteins.
3.5. Manipulate and predict the outcome of
genetic crosses.
3.6. Explain the inheritance of one
dominant and one recessive disease.

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 1. Understanding of the subject X

2. Application of knowledge X

3. Application of skills

4. Use of information

5. Communication and presentation

6. Autonomy / Independence

7. Quality (Mandatory) X

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Assessment Guidance: This should be the first biology unit taught.

Learning Outcome 1
• Differences between atoms, molecules, organelles, cells, tissues, organs,
organ systems and organelles.

Learning Outcome 2
• Structure and function of organelles to include the nucleus, ribosomes,
mitochondria, cell membrane, cytoplasm, vacuole, Golgi body, lysosomes,
rough ER, smooth ER
• Movement of molecules across the cell membrane – diffusion, osmosis,
active transport, bulk transport and how it is regulated.
• Effects of chemicals on biological materials (i.e. determination of water
potential)

Learning Outcome 3
• The relationship between genes, DNA, RNA and chromosomes.
• Mitosis phases including interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase,
telophase, cytokinesis
• Meiosis phases including interphase, prophase I, metaphase I, anaphase I,
telophase I, cytokinesis, prophase II, metaphase II, anaphase II, telophase
II, cytokinesis
• The outcome of genetic crosses (eye colour, tongue rolling)
• Inheritance of dominant and recessive diseases (e.g. cystic fibrosis, sickle
cell anaemia, Huntington’s disease)
• Different types of gene mutation and the consequences of mutation

Assessment methods must include a controlled unseen assessment (usually a

written examination) and at least one of the following (which could also be
conducted, wholly or partly, under controlled conditions):-
• practical work and a report (which could be a completed pro-forma);
• a written question and answer;
• an oral presentation with appropriate written evidence (e.g. learner notes
and/or PowerPoint slides);
• Analysis of physiological observations
• Case studies

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