Key Topics Covered

Topic 5

• Photosynthesis, Energy transfer, C-cycle, Ecological studies, Succession, Global warming, Evolution.

Topic 6

• Genetic Code, post-transcriptional changes, DNA profiling, PCR, DNA fingerprinting, Bacteria and virus structure, Non-specific immune system, Specific immune system, Evolution, Antibiotics, Determining time of death.

Topic 7

• Muscle structure and function, Joints, Respiration, Electrical activity of the heart, Changes in cardiovascular output, Spirometers, Homeostasis (incl. thermoregulation), Effects of exercise, Surgery, Performance enhancing drugs.

Topic 8

• Neurones, Action potentials, Synapses, Eye, Reflexes, Plant responses, Brain structure, Imaging, Critical windows, Learning, Medical research ethics, Human Genome Project, Genetically modified organisms.

The emphasis of the course will be on the topics above. If time permits some guidance may be given on coursework.

Other Information

Students should bring copies of their specifications and main textbook with them to the course.