BI1S210 - Genetics and Evolution 01 Jul 2022 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 1

Associated Module Information

Module Code: BI1S210
Module Title: Genetics and Evolution
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Sciences
Faculty Sub Group: Biological Sciences
Module Leader: Sky Redhead
Module Team: Cerith Jones, Hannah Seale, Peter Miedziak, Josephine Bradley
First Intended Intake: SEP 2027 Final Year of Intake: 2027
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 4
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100259 - genetics 100354 - molecular biology 100858 - evolution
HECOS Code Weighting: 40 20 40

Document Version Information

Version 1
Valid From 01 Jul 2022
Valid To 31 Aug 2028

Module Aims

This module introduces the principles and core concepts of genetics and the theory of evolution. On successful completion of this module students should be able to understand the structure and organisation of DNA, how DNA replication works and how we get from gene to protein. They will gain an understanding of inheritance, the theory of evolution, the factors that drive evolution as well as the results of evolution.

In engaging with the module, students will fully achieve the following level-appropriate Behaviour Domains of the USW Graduate Attributes:

Communication: Behaviour 1, 3

Innovation and Enterprise: Behaviour 1, 2

Digital Literacy: Behaviour 1, 3

The Capabilities associated with these behaviours are found in the Graduate Attributes table at the end of the descriptor.

Content Summary

This module is an introduction to the basics of genetics and evolution. Students will get to explore topics including, but not limited to the structure of DNA, how DNA is replicated, how we go from DNA to proteins and the relationships between genotype and phonotype. The relationships between genetics and evolution will be explored. How mutations in the DNA can lead to evolution as well as natural and artificial selection. There will be an introduction to population genetics and how changes in the frequency of genotypes can impact the population as a whole.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 48
Independent Study 80
Directed Study 72
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Explain the core principles of genetics, such DNA replication, cell division and inheritance.
LO2 Analyse the theories that underpin evolution and be able to apply theoretical concepts to the solution of genetic problems.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Synchronous Online Assessment Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Online) 1 Online test based on the module content taught throughout the year. 90 N/A 70 No 40
Asynchronous Assessment Student Choice 1 A team assignment based on debunking a common genetic and/or evolutionary misconception. Students will have the choice of a video/vlog or a podcast. 10 N/A 30 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Classroom Test - Time Constrained (Online) 1
Student Choice 1

Reading List

Freeman, S. (2017). Biological science. Pearson Education.