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Genetics

Module description

Genetics is fundamental to understanding life sciences. In this module you will gain an understanding of how information is stored and inherited in living organisms. You will consider genetics from the perspectives of DNA structure, gene expression, genome replication, heredity, genes in populations, and evolution. Modern techniques in DNA sequencing and the exploration of gene diversity will be introduced, with examples from humans and other organisms. In laboratory sessions you will learn and practice core molecular biology techniques. The coursework elements will develop your statistical analysis and problem-solving skills, together with providing an opportunity to learn and evidence strategies for successful group work and project management.

In order to take BIO1334 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

Module aims - intentions of the module

This module serves as an introduction to fundamental concepts in genetics, equipping you with essential knowledge for further study in the topic and life sciences in general. Genetics will be approached from the perspective of molecules, cells, individuals and populations. The module also gives you the opportunity to learn and practice important laboratory techniques, data collection and statistical analysis. Moreover, the practical content teaches you strategies for successful group work and project management, and the related activities enable you to develop and evidence these important graduate competencies. 

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

ILO: Module-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 1. Explain how information is stored and expressed in cells
• 2. Summarise the molecular basis of: variation and mutation; inheritance of genes and characteristics; genetic recombination; and the tools of genetic analysis
• 3. Describe the behaviour of genes in populations and how this contributes to adaptation in an evolutionary context

ILO: Discipline-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 4. Demonstrate knowledge of core genetics concepts
• 5. With some guidance, deploy established molecular biology techniques and analysis

ILO: Personal and key skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 6. Undertake digital data collection, statistical analysis and visualisation methods
• 7. Demonstrate laboratory competency in molecular biology techniques
• 8. Undertake problem solving activities
• 9. Evidence strategies to actively engage in groupwork and effectively manage group projects.

Syllabus plan

The discovery of DNA and RNA; structure of bases, nucleotides and polynucleotides; evidence for function of DNA as genetic material; evidence for DNA structure; implications of DNA structure; general structure of RNA; survey of types of RNA; general aspects of RNA synthesis; the genetic code; synthesis and processing of mRNA; rRNA and ribosomes; tRNA. Genome organisation and replication. Control of gene expression. Recombinant DNA and genetic engineering.

The differences between phenotype and genotype, and the way in which phenotype is affected by both genetic and environmental effects. The analysis of major genetic differences in eukaryotes, including linkage, sex linkage and epistasis. The statistical analysis of segregation ratios. Extrachromosomal inheritance. Epigenetics.

Population genetics: the concept of the gene pool, genetic landscape and the Hardy-Weinberg law; changes in gene frequency by selection and drift; neutral and Darwinian evolution; adaptation and evolution.

Practical sessions will reinforce concepts covered in lectures, emphasising the nature of scientific enquiry.

Accessibility statement:
As part of this module, you will undertake four laboratory sessions in the large teaching laboratory (of up to 200 students) that are of 2-3 hrs in duration. These sessions will be undertaken in pairs or groups, and some sessions involve fine laboratory work, and Bunsen burner flames. Breaks are possible and students are able to leave the laboratory for short periods. These laboratory sessions form the basis of a summative assessment that is undertaken as group work (groups typically contain 3-6 students).

Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)

Details of learning activities and teaching methods

Formative assessment

Summative assessment (% of credit)

Details of summative assessment

Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)

Re-assessment notes

Deferral – if you miss an assessment for certificated reasons that are approved by the Mitigation Committee, you will normally be either deferred in the assessment or an extension may be granted. If deferred, the format and timing of the re-assessment for each of the summative assessments is detailed in the table above ('Details of re-assessment'). The mark given for a deferred assessment will not be capped and will be treated as it would be if it were your first attempt at the assessment.

Referral - if you have failed the module (i.e. a final overall module mark of less than 40%) and the module cannot be condoned, you will be required to complete a re-assessment for each of the failed components on the module. The format and timing of the re-assessment for each of the summative assessments is detailed in the table above ('Details of re-assessment'). If you pass the module following re-assessment, your module mark will be capped at 40%.

Indicative learning resources - Basic reading

• Alberts et al, Essential Cell Biology, 6th Ed. Norton. ISBN:9781324033349
• Campbell NA, Reece JB (2008) Biology, 8th Ed. Pearson. ISBN 0-321-53616-7/0-321-53616-9

Indicative learning resources - Web based and electronic resources

• Module ELE page  - https://ele.exeter.ac.uk/

Indicative learning resources - Other resources

• Russell PJ (2010) iGenetics: A Molecular Approach (3rd edition), Pearson
• Alberts B et al. (2015) Molecular Biology of the Cell (6th edition), Garland Science. ISBN 9780815344322

Key words search

Adaptation, chromosome, Darwin, DNA, DNA sequencing, epigenetics, evolution, gene, gene cloning, genetic engineering, genetic modification, genetics, genome, genomics, genotype, heredity, Mendel, mutation, phenotype, recombinant DNA, recombination, RNA, transgenic, variation