Introduction to Biosciences

Course aim

The aim of the course is to introduce students from a non-science background to the basic concepts of science and the scientific method; focussing on the biosciences area of biology and also including some fundamental chemistry.

Course content

The course balances practical and theoretical knowledge to enhance students’ understanding of scientific enquiry. The course introduces the concepts of life sciences and biological aspects of living organisms such as the basic unit of life: the cell, as well as genetics and evolution. Fundamental chemistry concepts, including atoms, molecules and chemical reactions will also be explored in this course with a focus on chemistry that is relevant to understanding the human body and living things.
The course will introduce the scientific method and support the development of scientific literacy skills, including how to interpret and represent data graphically. Students will be given opportunities to develop their practical knowledge and skills through scientific enquiry.

Textbook(s)

Hewitt G, Lyons S, Suchocki J and Yeh J 2013, Conceptual Integrated Science, 2nd, Pearson/Addison Wesley, San Francisco, Calif. ; London

Prerequisite(s)

Nil

Corequisite(s)

Nil

Teaching method

Component	Duration
INTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES
Lecture	1 hour x 13 weeks
Tutorial	2 hours x 8 weeks
Practical	2 hours x 5 weeks
Online (Virtual Lecture)	1 hour x 13 weeks
EXTERNAL, MAWSON LAKES, ONLINE
Online (Podcast of lectures)	1 hour x 13 weeks
Online (Online learning support activities)	N/A x 13 weeks

Note: These components may or may not be scheduled in every study period. Please refer to the timetable for further details.

Assessment

Learning log/Journal, Portfolio, Presentation, Quantitative exercise, Skills demonstration, Test/Quiz

Fees

EFTSL*: 0.125
Commonwealth Supported program (Band 2)
To determine the fee for this course as part of a Commonwealth Supported program, go to:
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Fee-paying program for domestic and international students
International students and students undertaking this course as part of a postgraduate fee paying program must refer to the relevant program home page to determine the cost for undertaking this course.

Non-award enrolment
Non-award tuition fees are set by the university. To determine the cost of this course, go to:
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Not all courses are available on all of the above bases, and students must check to ensure that they are permitted to enrol in a particular course.

* Equivalent Full Time Study Load. Please note: all EFTSL values are published and calculated at ten decimal places. Values are displayed to three decimal places for ease of interpretation.