The Core of Life

Course Coordinator: Dr Alphonse Tsang BSc (HKU), PhD (HKU)

Course Developer: Dr. Helen Cheung (Ph.D, BSc Hons in Applied Biology)

This course is a core course for both BSc in Environmental Studies and BSc in Applied Science (Biology and Chemistry).

Advisory prerequisite(s)
You are advised to have already studied SCI S122.

Aims
The course aims to provide in-depth explanations of major biological processes that are essential for maintaining life.

Contents
The course is divided into five units covering the following topics:

• The biological molecules of life
• The composition of cells
• The energy of life
• Genetics and the life cycle of cells
• Evolution: genetic of variation and diversity

Learning support
There will be face-to-face tutorials, surgeries and laboratory sessions with online Web-based supplements. Laboratory sessions may be held in the evenings of weekdays or in weekends.

Assessment
There will be two to three assignments accounting for 50% of the course grade. The final examination contributes the remaining 50% to the course grade. Students are required to submit assignments via the Online Learning Environment (OLE).

Equipment
Students will need access to a personal computer or other electronic devices with an Internet connection.

Set book(s)
Campbell, N A and Reece, J (2015) Biology: With Plus Mastering Biology Student Access Kit, 10th edn, San Francisco: Pearson Benjamin Cummings.

Students with disabilities or special educational needs
Students with disabilities or special educational needs may have difficulties for the laboratory sessions or field visits. You are encouraged to seek advice from the Course Coordinator before enrolling in the course.