Overview

The "Chemistry and Biochemistry" module offers a comprehensive foundation in the fundamental principles of general chemistry and biochemistry. This first-year module covers essential topics such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, thermodynamics, and metabolic pathways. Students will develop critical analytical skills and gain hands-on laboratory experience, preparing them for advanced studies in chemistry and biochemistry. Through engaging lectures, interactive workshops, and practical laboratory sessions, students will build a strong foundation in these crucial scientific disciplines.

Basic Concepts and Atomic Structure: Chemical Bonding Stoichiometry States of Matter Thermodynamics Chemical Equilibrium Chemical Kinetics Biomolecules Enzymology Metabolic Pathways

Assessment Strategy

Examinations for this module will be conducted on campus in an invigilated environment. These exams will follow a closed-book format, meaning that no external materials, including notes, textbooks, or online resources, will be permitted during the examination. This approach is designed to assess your understanding and application of the module content under standardised and fair conditions.

The "Introduction to Chemistry and Biochemistry" module assessment strategy consists of two multiple-choice question (MCQ) exams, each contributing 30% to the final grade, and a comprehensive laboratory practical report accounting for 40% of the final grade. The first MCQ exam, conducted at the end of Semester 1, assesses students' understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts such as atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, and thermodynamics. The second MCQ exam, held at the end of Semester 2, evaluates their grasp of advanced chemistry topics and introductory biochemistry, including biomolecules, enzymology, metabolic pathways, and molecular biology. The laboratory practical report measures students' ability to conduct experiments, analyze data, and present their findings in a clear, scientific format. This balanced assessment approach ensures a thorough evaluation of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Threshold (D- to D+) A threshold student demonstrates basic knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts presented in the module. The work covers the module material only partially, and there may be gaps or inaccuracies. Arguments are present but may be underdeveloped, lack depth, or contain limited support. Examples may be sparse or only loosely connected to the points being made. The work lacks detailed analysis, critical thinking, and supporting evidence. Overall, performance in this range shows minimal competence with the module content, reflecting a basic but incomplete understanding. Satisfactory (C- to C+) A student achieving a satisfactory grade demonstrates a reasonable understanding of the essential facts and key concepts introduced in the module. The work covers the core material but may lack depth and may exhibit occasional inaccuracies or gaps in knowledge. Arguments are generally present but may be underdeveloped or lack clarity and support. Examples, where included, are relevant but may not be comprehensive or fully aligned with the argument. There is limited evidence of critical thinking, but a basic grasp of the material is evident. Performance at this level indicates an acceptable engagement with module content, but there is room for improvement in analysis, argumentation, and support. Good (B- to B+) A good student demonstrates a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module and can provide relevant examples where appropriate. The work shows a logical and well-structured argument supported by module materials. It reflects a solid understanding of the content, with evidence of engagement and some critical thinking. Examples and evidence are used effectively to support the argument. This performance level indicates a strong grasp of the material, with clear, coherent expression and detailed understanding of core concepts. Excellent (A- to A) An excellent student demonstrates a thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module and can provide detailed examples that enhance understanding, supported by additional reading and knowledge drawn from other modules or sources. The work is characterised by a logical, cohesive, and well-supported argument that reflects a high level of understanding. Critical thinking is evident throughout, and there is clear evidence of engagement with wider reading, particularly for A+ and A grades. Work at this level demonstrates comprehensive insight, originality, and an ability to synthesise and apply knowledge effectively across various contexts.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply knowledge from chemistry and biochemistry to understand the interrelationships between chemical reactions and biological processes.

• Evaluate the kinetics of chemical reactions, including the determination of reaction rates and the effects of various factors on these rates.

• Identify and Describe the fundamental principles of general chemistry, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, states of matter, thermodynamics, and chemical kinetics.

• Recall and Explain the basic concepts of biochemistry, such as the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, as well as key metabolic pathways and enzymology.