Academic year: 2022-23
Course: Foundation Course Science
Credits: 6
Period: first semester
Number of hours: 48
Teacher(s): Laura Mascia (laura.masciafcs@gmail.com)
Language of instruction: English
Learning outcomes
To understand the main concepts in Biology and to critically apply to real world examples. To learn, organize and connect the different topics in a long-life learning perspective.
To find the right strategy to study scientific topics at University.
Knowledge
The course has the purpose of providing the basic knowledge of Biology.The main topics that will be treated are: Chemical composition of living organisms, Cell types: prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, cell division, DNA and genes, genetic code, protein synthesis,molecular biology techniques, viruses, anatomy and physiology of humans, tissues, organs and systems, circulatory system, respiratory system, digestive system, excretory system, nervous system, immune system.
Assessment criteria of knowledge
In the written tests the student must demonstrate his/her knowledge of the course topics through answers to specific questions.
In the scientific comprehension tests the student must demonstrate his/her ability to manage and understand scintific language
In the short oral talk on a favourite topic, chosen by the student, he/she must demonstrate his/her oral skills.
Skills
The aim of the course is the acquisition by the student of biological knowledge, useful also for further specialized examination and the developing of cognitive strategies to learn, compare and analyze scientific topics.
Assessment criteria of skills
Review of the topics,trial tests are held periodically, Schemes and maps of the complex topics are held in the class.
Behaviors
The student will be encouraged to apply to real world examples the knowledge acquired and to implement in life long learning.
Prerequisites
General scientific knolewdge from high school
Syllabus
1. Chemical composition of living organisms
Basic chemistry: Atom and molecules. Types of bonds. The importance of carbon. The water and its properties. Biological molecules: proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates.
2. The cell
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Cell membranes and organelles: structure and function.
3. Genetic code, cell division, reproduction and inheritance
DNA and genes. Genetic code. Transcription. Protein synthesis. Mitosis and meiosis. Mendelian genetics. Reproduction in animals. Viruses. Molecular biology techniques.
4. Basis of anatomy and physiology of animals
Tissues, organs and systems in animals. Embryology. Circulatory system. Respiratory system. Digestive system. Excretory system. Nervous system. Immune system
5. Elements of biochemistry
Energy flow and biological significance of photosynthesis, glycolysis, fermentation and aerobic respiration. The importance of ATP. Autotrophic and heterotrophic metabolism.
Bibliography
Biology, Coursebook. Cambridge IGCSE. Jones and Jones. Cambridge University press
High school Biology books in italian
Assessment methods
The final exam consists of two parts. The first and second part is a test consisting of 30-40 multiple choice questions on topics of the first part of the course for a total score of 30. Only if the first part is passed with a score the same or higher than 18, the second part can be performed. Also this second part must be passed with a score the same or higher than 18.
A scientific comprehension test on a recent scientific topic, where the student has to answer some open questions.
A short oral talk (3-4 slides on a favourite topic) to be presented in the class