3B002E - The Science of Life: Foundations in Biology 01 Sep 2026 - 31 Jul 2031 | Version 0

Associated Module Information

Module Code: 3B002E
Module Title: The Science of Life: Foundations in Biology
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Science
Faculty Sub Group: Applied Science
Module Leader: Lewis Fall
Module Team: Amelia Grass
First Intended Intake: SEP 2030 Final Year of Intake:
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 30 Credit Level: 3
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100343 - applied biology 100346 - biology
HECOS Code Weighting: 50 50

Document Version Information

Version 0
Valid From 01 Sep 2026
Valid To 31 Jul 2031

Module Aims

· Introduce learners to the theoretical foundations of biological systems and their role in the global environment.

· Provide practical experiences which develop core biological investigation skills and laboratory competence.

· Connect core biological principles to the preferred subject discipline of learners.

Content Summary

This module introduces students to the foundational principles of biology, focusing on the molecular, cellular, genetic, and systemic levels of life. Through an integrated approach, learners will explore how biological systems operate and interact—from the structure of biomolecules to the complexity of the human body, the diversity of plant life, and the diverse roles of microbes.

The module combines theoretical learning with hands-on laboratory experience, enabling students to develop essential scientific skills and laboratory competence. Real-world examples drawn from human biology, wildlife biology, plant science and microbiology will highlight the relevance of these fields in addressing global challenges such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and human health.

By the end of the module, students will have built a solid foundation for further study in the life sciences.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Problem/Challenge Based Learning 170
Practical Classes and Workshops 56
Formative Assessment 14
Seminar 60
Total Hours Selected 300

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Perform a range of laboratory-based investigations of core biological principles.
LO2 Interpret the outcomes of laboratory-based investigations in the context of biological theory.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Synchronous Onsite Practical Assessment Practical Coursework (Onsite) Individual observations during the assessment will ensure that each learner exits the module with core set of discipline specific skills, and that they can explain the scientific theory behind the experiments they perform and the results they obtain. 0 1500 100 No 100

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Practical Coursework (Onsite)

Reading List

Campbell, N.A., Urry, L.A., Cain, M.L., Wasserman, S.A., Minorsky, P.V. and Reece, J.B. (2021) Biology: A global approach. 12th edn. Harlow: Pearson Education Limited.