Science from Molecules to Mutations

Unit code: JQU0077 | Study level: Non-award
Credit points
N/A
Location
City Campus
Footscray Park
Prerequisites
JQU0076 - Science from Atoms to Anatomy
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

This unit builds on key concepts in chemistry and biology, exploring how to measure and explain chemical reactions, and how genetic information is stored, transmitted, and expressed in living systems. Students will strengthen their skills as prospective scientists by planning, testing, and improving their own investigations.
Through the scientific method, they will design experiments, collect and analyse data, and respond to feedback to refine their work. A major focus is developing confidence in scientific communication. Students will practice sharing ideas in both individual and group tasks.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate the ability to apply and refine the scientific method through planning, drafting, receiving and responding to feedback and improving scientific outputs.
  2. Explain the principles of chemical quantification and basic organic chemistry to analyse composition, structure and reactions of matter.
  3. Apply the principles of genetics and cell biology to describe how genetic information is stored, transmitted, expressed and analyse how changes in these processes can affect living systems.
  4. Exhibit the ability to explore and extend understandings of scientific communication by engaging in both individual and group tasks.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Portfolio
|
Grade: 20%
Individual Investigation Design (IID) Portfolio (part 1)
Assessment type: Project
|
Grade: 40%
Team Presentation at Scientific Fair and IID Portfolio (part 2)
Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 40%
End-of-Block In-Class Test (Multiple Choice & Short Answer)

Required reading

Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

International Foundations at VU
JQAG | Non-award course | Duration: 32 weeks

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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