Overview

Semester One: Students will develop their written communication skills via the preparation of essays (1000-1500 words) on topics relevant to their degree programme. Opportunities will be given to receive formative feedback, both general and specific, before the submission of a final summative essay.

Semester Two: Students will develop their spoken communication skills via the presentation of short talks to a variety of audiences.

Both Semesters: Students will have 'Popular Science' sessions provided by members of the academic staff. These provide exemplars and opportunities for reflection on the skills necessary to communicate complex science, as well as giving students an opportunity to start to identify and develop their specific interests in particular aspects of their subject. This will also allow development of note-taking and identification of key points in lectures.

Assessment Strategy

-excellent -A- to A+: An excellent student will demonstrate a wider understanding of the implications of the question beyond the obvious, a good grasp of latest developments in the subject area (including its limitations) and a developed critical ability. Communication will be fluent and articulate, with an ability to engage the audience. References/sources will be highly appropriate, scientific, well evaluated and extensively researched.

-good -B- to B+: A good student will produce a well-structured cogent argument demonstrating good understanding of the information requested and knowledge of the subject matter. Communication will be coherent and matched to the intended audience. References/sources will be appropriate, scientific and evaluated well.

• adequate C- to C+: A student acheiving C level grades will demonstrate reasonable understanding of the information requested and some knowledge of the subject matter though with some lapses in detail and accuracy of ideas. A reasonable attempt to communicate ideas will be made, with some evidence of consideration of the intended audience. References/sources will be appropriate though may be limited.

-threshold -D- to D+: A threshold student will demonstrate a basic ability to answer questions with relevant information, with some organisation of thoughts and understanding of the subject matter. Communication may have some misunderstandings evident but will show basic understanding of the principles. References will be used but may be limited or may rely on less appropriate sources.

Learning Outcomes

• Communicate scientific information and ideas in an effective and concise manner both orally and in writing

• Demonstrate awareness of current developments and issues in the Biological Sciences

• Develop life long learning skills

• Develop personal development skills relating to time management, prioritisation of work, organisation and managing deadlines.

• Obtain information on a specified topic from a variety of sources including the primary scientific literature