The Building Blocks of Life module (BS11009)

This module addresses the structures and biochemical properties of key biological molecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates and proteins. You will discover how enzymes work and look at their importance in the catalysis of biological reactions. The module also considers the origin of cells, and examines their main components.

What you will learn

In this module you will:

• understand the structures and biochemical properties of essential biological molecules
• learn about enzyme function and their vital role in biological reactions
• relate structural characteristics of biomolecules to their functions
• review levels of structural organisation in proteins
• investigate enzyme properties and the relevance of energy and thermodynamics to biochemical reactions and cellular metabolism
• explore the evolution of cells and their constituent components

learn about biological building blocks and how they contribute to the structure and function of animal, plant and microbial cells

Assignments / assessment

• coursework (100%)

The module is assessed by coursework consisting of computer marked assessments, designed to test your ability to apply your learning to solve appropriate problems.

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods

• lectures
• workshops
• online tests

You will learn through a mix of lectures and workshops. Learning material is provided through lecture notes and videos, examples, and online tests to check your learning as you go along.