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BIoINFoRMATICSCourse Overview

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BIoINFoRMATICS

Biotechnology is one of the most rapidly advancing fields of Science. This course explores how we use technology to understand DNA and genetic codes. Students will examine the structure and function of the cell, DNA and proteins, the development and uses of genetic technology.

Advances in DNA sequencing have resulted in an explosion of information available to scientists. Students will develop skills to decipher this information and further understand the code for life. On completion of this unit, students will gain a range of experiences in state-of-the-art laboratory techniques and how biotechnology is changing every aspect of our world.

The course is structured around 3 big questions:

• Whataretheinstructionsforlife? Students will develop an understanding of DNA, RNA, genes, proteins, gene mutations.• Whattechnologieshelpustoanalyseandmanipulatelife? Students will develop an understanding of PCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, online databases.• Whatdoesthefutureholdforbiotechnology? Students will investigate the major advances in biotechnology and how technology is rapidly advancing our understanding of life.

Students will be required to complete on average 1 hour of homework per week.

For successful completion of this unit students will be required to submit the following tasks:

• GeneandProteinResearchInvestigation Students research a protein, use online databases to DNA sequence protein code and explore the protein structure and function in depth.

• TopicTest Students will be tested on the content of the course, ranging from the structure and function of DNA to genes, proteins and biotechnology.

Learning Outcomes

Homework

Assessment

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