Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2025 (24/02/2025 - 21/06/2025)
- Study level
- Undergraduate
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Chemistry & Molec Biosciences
Introduction to biochemistry and cell biology emphasising aspects of particular relevance to physiotherapy; including structure of animal cells, bacteria and viruses, biological chemistry especially protein structure and function; introductory metabolism and nutrition; molecular genetics; infection and immunity.
This course will provide foundation knowledge in how the human body functions at a cellular level, including the components of a cell, how it gets its energy and how proteins are important for cell structure and function. This course also provides an overview of how genetic information is transmitted from generation to generation and how errors in genetic information can lead to altered protein function and disease. It will also introduce infectious agents that cause disease in humans, how we canﾠ prevent infection, and how the body combats these microscopic invaders.
Course requirements
Assumed background
High school Chemistry (and Biology) is preferred but not assumed. The Biological Chemistry module starts with 3 tutorial sessions to ensure that everyone has the same knowledge of chemistry concepts at the start of the lectures.
Restrictions
Course restricted to Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) students.
Course contact
Course staff
Lecturer
Associate Professor Marloes Nitert Dekker
Professor Luke Guddat
Associate Professor Graham Leggatt
Dr Samantha Stehbens
Professor James Fraser
Associate Professor Jack Wang
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Please check your timetable regularly at the start of each semester. Refer to the BIOL1007 Blackboard site for a detailed timetable.
Aims and outcomes
The aim of this course is to introduce students to aspects of cell biology, microbiology, chemistry, biochemistry,ﾠmolecular genetics and infection control relevant to the practice of Physiotherapy.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
describe the chemical nature of, and major chemical processes within, the human body;
LO2.
illustrate the key features of the metabolic processes by which cells generate energy;
LO3.
evaluate how the body responds to changes in nutritional input and energy output;
LO4.
describe the effect of a change in the genetic code and predict the inheritance of genetic disease;
LO5.
explain the similarities & differences between eukaryotic cells, prokaryotic cells and viruses;
LO6.
explain how the immune system combats infection;
LO7.
describe the major features of pathogenic microbes and how they cause disease;
LO8.
identify the methods of infection control and evaluate their relative merits.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiz |
UQ RiPPLE active learning
|
12% Pass/Fail |
Module Biological Chemistry 18/03/2025 2:00 pm Module Microbiology & Infection Control 4/04/2025 2:00 pm Module Cell Biology 11/04/2025 2:00 pm Module Genetics 2/05/2025 2:00 pm Module Immunology 16/05/2025 2:00 pm Module Metabolism 30/05/2025 2:00 pm |
| Quiz |
Laboratory Quiz
|
10% |
26/03/2025 - 27/03/2025 |
| Examination |
In-Semester Exam
|
34% |
In-semester Saturday 29/03/2025 - 12/04/2025
Centrally-run (scheduled on a Saturday) |
| Examination |
End of Semester Exam
|
44% |
End of Semester Exam Period 7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025 |
A hurdle is an assessment requirement that must be satisfied in order to receive a specific grade for the course. Check the assessment details for more information about hurdle requirements.
Assessment details
UQ RiPPLE active learning
- Hurdle
- Online
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 12% Pass/Fail
- Due date
Module Biological Chemistry 18/03/2025 2:00 pm
Module Microbiology & Infection Control 4/04/2025 2:00 pm
Module Cell Biology 11/04/2025 2:00 pm
Module Genetics 2/05/2025 2:00 pm
Module Immunology 16/05/2025 2:00 pm
Module Metabolism 30/05/2025 2:00 pm
- Other conditions
- Student specific, Peer assessed.
Task description
In BIOL1007, we use the active learning tool UQ RiPPLE. UQ RiPPLE is a software tool where you will be asked to write questions, review questions made by others and answer questions. For each of the six modules in the course (Biological Chemistry, Microbiology & Infection Control, Cell Biology, Genetics, Immunology, and Metabolism), you will create one (1) question, review five (5) questions and answer ten (10) questions. Successful completion of the creation, reviewing and answering task for each module will yield 2% of the course mark (e.g. 12% in total). Only questions that pass moderation will count toward creation marks. You will have to complete this before the end of each corresponding module. You can use the question bank for each module to help you study for your exams.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. Whilst students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of assessment in this course will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
To pass this assessment, students will be required to demonstrate detailed comprehension of their written submission independent of AI and MT tools.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle/s relating to this assessment item.Submission guidelines
Questions are submitted, reviewed and answered on the UQ RiPPLE platform. There is a link to the platform in the BIOL1007 blackboard site.
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date. For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period). 10% will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days, at which point your submission will receive a mark of zero (0) unless an extension has been approved.
In most instances one or more hurdles will apply to your assessment item so you will need to submit it to fulfil the requirements of the course regardless of how late it is and the mark you are likely to be awarded.
Laboratory Quiz
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Quiz
- Weight
- 10%
- Due date
26/03/2025 - 27/03/2025
Task description
You will have to complete the questions in the short Practical Quiz, which will be held at the end of your second laboratory session. The questions will be based on the information in the laboratory manual and the experiments conducted in the laboratory.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Absence from a Practical Session
You must complete and actively contribute to each timetabled session of the laboratory component of this course e.g. both laboratory practical sessions.
If you are unable to complete your timetabled practical session due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g., illness) you must submit a practical absence request immediately accompanied by acceptable supporting documentation that covers the date of the missed practical.
A list of acceptable reasons and required supporting information is found at: https://my.uq.edu.au/information-and-services/manage-my-program/exams-and-assessment/applying-assessment-extension?p=1#1
Requests for practical absences can be submitted via the course Blackboard site under the Assessment tab > Learning Resources > Practical Absence. Your request must be submitted prior to or on the day of the missed practical. It is your responsibility to submit an application and provide correct documentation by the due date and time. Requests without correct supporting documentation may not be approved. If the reason for your absence is not approved, you will be considered as absent form that practical session and the laboratory completion hurdle may apply.
Extensions will not be granted for alternate assessment (unless exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated).
Alternate assessment will only be approved for one missed practical (unless exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated).
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle/s relating to this assessment item.Submission guidelines
You will complete the quiz in the laboratory at the end of your second laboratory session. Hand your quiz back to your tutor after completion.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
Applications for Extensions
Information on applying for an extension can be found here: my.UQ Applying for an extension.
Extension applications must be received by the assessment due date and time.
If you are unable to provide approved documentation to support your application by the due date and time, you must still submit your application by the deadline but with an attached Word document that outlines why you cannot provide the approved documentation by the deadline. You will then need to acquire and upload the approved documentation to your request within 24 hours. Please note: When an extension request has been submitted and is pending, students are expected to continue to work on the assessment item, with the aim of submitting by the requested due date and time.
Prolonged Absence
If you have been ill or unable to attend class for more than 14 days, we advise you to carefully consider whether you are capable of successfully completing your courses this semester.
Extensions with Student Access Plans (SAP)
For extensions up to 7 days, your SAP is all that is required as documentation to support your application. However, extension requests longer than 7 days (for any one assessment item) will require the submission of additional supporting documentation e.g. a medical certificate.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
You are required to submit assessable items on time. If you fail to meet the submission deadline for any assessment item, then 10% of the maximum possible mark for the assessment item (assessment ‘marked from’ value) will be deducted as a late penalty for every day (or part day) late after the due date. For example, if you submit your assignment 1 hour late, you will be penalised 10%; if your assignment is 24.5 hours late, you will be penalised 20% (because it is late by one 24-hour period plus part of another 24-hour period). 10% will be deducted per day for up to 7 calendar days, at which point your submission will receive a mark of zero (0) unless an extension has been approved.
In most instances one or more hurdles will apply to your assessment item so you will need to submit it to fulfil the requirements of the course regardless of how late it is and the mark you are likely to be awarded.
In-Semester Exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 34%
- Due date
In-semester Saturday
29/03/2025 - 12/04/2025
Centrally-run (scheduled on a Saturday)
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
Task description
The in-semester exam is based on content covered in the Modules Biological Chemistry and Infectious Diseases and their Control (Modules 1-2). The exam will consist of a mixture of multiple choice questions and short answer questions. This will be an on-campus, invigilated exam.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle/s relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
End of Semester Exam
- Hurdle
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 44%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
7/06/2025 - 21/06/2025
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
Task description
Assessment of the modules Cell Biology, Genetics, Immunology, and Metabolism ONLY (modules 3-6 in the course). the exam will consist of a mixture of multiple choice questions and short answer questions.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT)
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Hurdle requirements
See ADDITIONAL COURSE GRADING INFORMATION for the hurdle/s relating to this assessment item.Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed Book examination - no written materials permitted |
| Exam platform | Paper based |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Student has made little attempt to address the requirements for this topic. Written submissions and performance are incomplete or unsatisfactory. The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 0% |
| 2 (Fail) |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Student fails to demonstrate relevant knowledge or understanding of the underlying concepts associated with this topic. The student shows little evidence of the skills and understanding expected of a graduate. The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 30% |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes Course grade description: The student demonstrates a limited knowledge of the topics being assessed. The student shows little aptitude to continue in this area, but has benefited from the exercise and may be able to apply this knowledge for other purposes. The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 45% |
| 4 (Pass) |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: The student's answer to the topic is unambiguous and addresses the specific question(s) or issue(s) being examined. Performance in the assessment instrument(s) demonstrates basic knowledge and comprehension of the underlying concepts of the topic being examined. The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 50% |
| 5 (Credit) |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: In addition to the criteria for a grade of 4, the student demonstrates in his or her assessment a superior understanding of some of the underlying concepts of the topic(s) being examined. The student has shown some competence in addressing the assessment criteria. The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 65% |
| 6 (Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: In addition to the criteria for a grade of 5, the student demonstrates a higher level of understanding of the factual and conceptual information available from the literature or other appropriate sources (e.g. the student's own experimental data). A good attempt has been made to dissect and integrate different aspects of that knowledge, resulting in well-balanced and appropriate conclusions and a commendable attempt to synthesize ideas. The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 75% |
| 7 (High Distinction) |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. Course grade description: Reserved for an outstanding performance which demonstrates a level of achievement superior to a grade of 6, and includes a substantial and original synthesis of ideas based on a critical analysis of the subject matter available to the student. The minimum percentage required for this grade is: 85% |
Additional course grading information
Assessment Hurdles
In order to pass this course, you must meet ALL of the following requirements (if you do not meet these requirements, the maximum grade you will receive will be a 3):
- You must obtain an overall course mark of 50% or more; and
- You must obtain a weighted average mark of 40% or more across the two examination components; and
- You must obtain a minimum weighted average mark of 40% across all other non-examination course assessment items; and
- You must complete 100% of the laboratory component of the course.
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Should you fail a course with a grade of 3, you may be eligible for supplementary assessment. Refer to my.UQ for information on supplementary assessment and how to apply.
Supplementary assessment provides an additional opportunity to demonstrate you have achieved all the required learning outcomes for a course.
If you apply and are granted supplementary assessment, the type of supplementary assessment set will consider which learning outcome(s) have not been met.
Supplementary assessment can take any form (such as a written report, oral presentation, examination or other appropriate assessment) and may test specific learning outcomes tailored to the individual student, or all learning outcomes. If your assessment takes the form of an examination, the supplementary exam will comprise questions of all six modules in the course.
To receive a passing grade of 3S4, you must obtain a mark of 50% or more on the supplementary assessment.
Additional assessment information
Assessment Submission
It is the responsibility of the student to ensure the on time, correct and complete submission of all assessment items.
Students are responsible for retaining evidence of submission by the due date for all assessment items, in the required form (for example, screenshot, email, photo, and an unaltered copy of submitted work).
In the case of a Blackboard outage, contact the Course Coordinator as soon as possible to confirm the outage with ITS.
Assessment/Attendance
Notify your Course Coordinator as soon as you become aware of any issue that may affect your ability to meet the assessment/attendance requirements of the course. The my.UQ website and the Course Profile (CP) for your course provide information about your course requirements, the rules associated with your courses and services offered by the University.
A note for repeating students in this course
Only learning activities and/or assessment items completed during the study period of enrolment, including any approved extensions, may contribute to your grade in this course. The whole or partial use of assessment items previously submitted for the same course, for a course at any institution, or for published material, is not permitted without written permission of the Course Coordinator.
Important Note
Turnitin is to be used for assignments/laboratory reports to check for plagiarism. Penalties can be severe for plagiarism.
The University has adopted the following definition of plagiarism: Plagiarism is the act of misrepresenting as one's own original work the ideas, interpretations, words or creative works of another either intentionally or unintentionally. These include published and unpublished documents, designs, music, sounds, images, photographs, computer codes and ideas gained through working in a group. These ideas, interpretations, words or works may be found in print and/or electronic media.
Students should read the UQ Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Other course materials
If we've listed something under further requirement, you'll need to provide your own.
Required
| Item | Description | Further Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Laboratory coat, safety glasses and enclosed shoes | To comply with the PPE requirements in the laboratory, you need to have a laboratory coat, safety glasses and enclosed shoes. Lab coats and safety glasses can be obtained from the campus book store or if you already have a lab coat/safety glasses from high school or previous studies, you can use these. | own item needed |
Additional learning resources information
Blackboard
Additional supplementary material may be posted on the Blackboard site for the course which can be found at learn.uq.edu.au
Please check the Announcements section regularly for information updates.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Multiple weeks From Week 1 To Week 3 |
Lecture |
Biological Chemistry Luke Guddat. The Chemical Nature of the Human Body |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 6 |
Lecture |
Microbiology and Infection Control Jody Peters. An introduction to infectious diseases and infectious agents. |
Multiple weeks From Week 4 To Week 5 |
Practical |
Infectious Disease and Their Control Practical In this practical you will: sample your hands to understand the bacterial flora present; observe bacterial species under the microscope; self-assess your hand washing competency and; practice hand hygiene procedures. |
Week 7 (07 Apr - 13 Apr) |
Lecture |
Cell Biology Mathew Jones. Fundamentals of eukaryotic cell biology |
Multiple weeks From Week 8 To Week 9 |
Lecture |
Genetics Marloes Dekker. Fundamentals of eukaryotic inheritance and molecular genetics. |
Multiple weeks From Week 10 To Week 11 |
Lecture |
Immunology Graham Leggatt. The immune defences of the human body. |
Multiple weeks From Week 12 To Week 13 |
Lecture |
Metabolism Marloes Dekker. The Fundamentals of Energy Production in the Human Body. |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments - Students Policy and Procedure
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.