Course Outline

LFS100 Cell Biology

Course Coordinator:Georgia Kafer (gkafer@usc.edu.au) School:School of Health - Biomedicine

2025Semester 1

UniSC Sunshine Coast

UniSC Moreton Bay

Blended learning Most of your course is on campus but you may be able to do some components of this course online.

Please go to usc.edu.au for up to date information on the
teaching sessions and campuses where this course is usually offered.

What is this course about?

Description

Cell Biology explores the cellular foundation of life. You will explore the connection between the structure and function of cells (eukaryotic and prokaryotic), aspects of cellular evolution and the organisation and development of cells into primary tissues. The course offers you the opportunity to develop and demonstrate the skills important for scientific experimentation and investigation in the fields of science and biomedical science, including practical laboratory skills and science communication. It provides a strong foundation for further studies in physiology, molecular biology, and genetics relevant to biomedicine.

How will this course be delivered?

Activity Hours Beginning Week Frequency
Blended learning
Learning materials – Online learning materials in a recorded format with interactive (H5P) modules and formative (revision) quizzes. 2hrs Week 1 13 times
Tutorial/Workshop 2 – The weekly online sessions (also known as 'lectorials') allow you to engage with course academics. You will be guided through revision activities, the development of core skills for application in workshops and laboratory classes and also work through problems relating to theories learnt across the course. There is also 'open' time provided in these sessions for questions regarding all aspects of the course (including questions on course theory, skills and assessment). 2hrs Week 1 13 times
Tutorial/Workshop 1 – Interactive small class workshops with skill development and collaborative learning. 2hrs Week 1 7 times
Laboratory 1 – Science laboratory (wet labs) for collaborative learning and practical skill development. 3hrs Week 2 6 times

Course Topics

  • Comparative structure and function of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells
  • Cell membrane structure and function
  • Introductory cell metabolism
  • Cell communication
  • The cell cycle and cell division
  • Genetics and patterns of inheritance
  • Introductory molecular cell biology
  • Human cell and tissue structure and function
  • Introductory developmental biology

What level is this course?

100 Level (Introductory)

Engaging with discipline knowledge and skills at foundational level, broad application of knowledge and skills in familiar contexts and with support. Limited or no prerequisites. Normally, associated with the first full-time study year of an undergraduate program.

What is the unit value of this course?

12 units

How does this course contribute to my learning?

Course Learning Outcomes On successful completion of this course, you should be able to... Graduate Qualities Completing these tasks successfully will contribute to you becoming...
1 Describe the basic structure and function of cells in living organisms. Knowledgeable
2 Apply knowledge of cell structures and functions to solve problems. Knowledgeable
Creative and critical thinker
3 Research, critically evaluate, and ethically present appropriate and relevant literature about cells in a creative and informative way. Knowledgeable
Creative and critical thinker
Ethical
4 Demonstrate the procedures for observing and recording biological specimens using compound light microscopy. Knowledgeable
Empowered
5 Present results of an experiment in a standard scientific format. Knowledgeable
Creative and critical thinker

Am I eligible to enrol in this course?

Refer to the UniSC Glossary of terms for definitions of “pre-requisites, co-requisites and anti-requisites”.

Pre-requisites

Not applicable

Co-requisites

Not applicable

Anti-requisites

LFS101 or LFS103

Specific assumed prior knowledge and skills (where applicable)

Not applicable

How am I going to be assessed?

Grading Scale

Standard Grading (GRD)

High Distinction (HD), Distinction (DN), Credit (CR), Pass (PS), Fail (FL).

Details of early feedback on progress

This course will provide you with early feedback on your learning of cell biology topics and scientific skills. This feedback will be provided in the form of formative online quizzes and subsequent in class feedback on summative tasks from Week 2 onwards. In addition, there are weekly formative online quizzes (H5P) administered through online learning materials throughout semester. You can use the feedback provided to identify if you require additional support for your learning of cell biology.

Assessment tasks

Delivery mode Task No. Assessment Product Individual or Group Weighting % What is the duration / length? When should I submit? Where should I submit it?
All 1 Portfolio Individual and Group 25%
Multiple elements, approximately 2-3 hours weekly.
Throughout teaching period (refer to Format) In Class
All 2 Artefact - Creative, and Written Piece Individual 25%
Multiple elements equivalent to approx. 1000 words total.
Refer to Format Online Assignment Submission with plagiarism check
All 3 Examination - not Centrally Scheduled Individual 50%
This assessment has two components:

Task 3A: Mid-Semester exam (60 minutes)
Task 3B: End of semester exam (80 minutes)
Refer to Format Exam Venue
All - Assessment Task 1:Theoretical and Practical Portfolio
Goal:
For you to regularly engage in the theoretical and practical components of the course to facilitate your learning and skill development.
Product: Portfolio
Format:
This portfolio will include:

Task 1A: Workshop preparation and participation (4%; Weeks 3,5,9,11)
Task 1B: Laboratory class preparation and participation (6%; Weeks 2,4,6,8,10,12)
Task 1C: In class (lab) graphing assessment (5%; Week 4)
Task 1D: In class (lab) cell drawing assessment (5%; Week 6)
Task 1E: In class (lab) zone diagram assessment (5%; Week 12)

Please refer to the LFS100 assessment folder in Canvas for specific details for task description, format, marking rubrics and submission instructions.
Criteria:
No. Learning Outcome assessed
1
Participation in workshop and laboratory classes to learn about cells, and develop skills of microscopy and scientific method
1 2 4 5
2
Description of structures and functions of cells
1
3
Application of cell biology knowledge to solve problems
2
4
Demonstration and understanding of light microscopy skills
4
5
Presentation of data in a standard scientific format
5
Generic Skills:
Communication, Collaboration, Problem solving, Organisation, Applying technologies, Information literacy
All - Assessment Task 2:Cell Specific Investigation (CSi) Assignment
Goal:
This task is designed to help you explore the world of cells and how they are important for life. You will gain skills in searching for relevant academic literature, communicating in scientific language and creating figures to aid in scientific communication. You will revise and employ various concepts in cell biology and how they are important for cell structure and function.
Product: Artefact - Creative, and Written Piece
Format:
This assignment consists of three parts:

Task 2A: CSi Checkpoint (3%, Week 4)
Task 2B: CSi Turnitin self-audit (2%, Monday of Week 10)
Task 2C: CSi Final submission (20%, Friday of Week 10)

Please refer to the LFS100 assessment folder in Canvas for specific details for task description, format, marking rubrics and submission instructions.
Criteria:
No. Learning Outcome assessed
1
Critical evaluation and synthesis of scientific literature to describe a chosen cell’s structure and related function.
1 2 3
2
Integration of cell biology concepts discussed in the course theory modules specific to your chosen cell.
1 2
3
Communication of the cell’s structure and function using visual means.
1 2 3
4
Use of appropriate scientific and academic language.
1 3
5
Adherence to instructions on presentation and formatting, including referencing
3
6
Compliance with academic integrity when using and citing literature
3
Generic Skills:
Communication, Problem solving, Applying technologies, Information literacy
All - Assessment Task 3:Theory and Practical Examinations
Goal:
To assess your practical skills, understanding of and ability to apply knowledge of the theory of cell biology presented in the course.
Product: Examination - not Centrally Scheduled
Format:
This assessment has two components:

Task 3A: Mid semester exam (20%, limited open book, held in class (Week 7 Workshop)).
Task 3B: End of semester exam (30%, limited open book, held in class (Week 13 Workshop)).

The mid semester exam (Task 3A) will allow you to demonstrate your knowledge, practical skills and understanding of topics including prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, the cell membrane, the introduction to cell metabolism, cell communication and the cell cycle. 

The end of semester exam (Task 3B) will allow you to demonstrate your knowledge, practical skills and understanding of topics including genetics and the basis of inheritance, molecular cell biology (DNA, RNA and protein), cells to tissues and the introduction to developmental cell biology. 

Both examinations will consist of various question types including multiple choice, fill in the blank and short answer style questions across both theory and practical elements of the course content. Further details will be provided on Canvas.
Criteria:
No. Learning Outcome assessed
1
Description of structure and function of cells
1
2
Demonstration of the connection between structure and function of cells
1 2
3
Demonstration of structure and function of tissues in animals and plants
1 2
4
Application of knowledge of cell biology theory to solve problems
2
Generic Skills:
Communication, Problem solving

Directed study hours

A 12-unit course will have total of 150 learning hours which will include directed study hours (including online if required), self-directed learning and completion of assessable tasks. Student workload is calculated at 12.5 learning hours per one unit.

What resources do I need to undertake this course?

Please note: Course information, including specific information of recommended readings, learning activities, resources, weekly readings, etc. are available on the course Canvas site– Please log in as soon as possible.

Prescribed text(s) or course reader

Please note that you need to have regular access to the resource(s) listed below. Resources may be required or recommended.

Required? Author Year Title Edition Publisher
Required n/a 0 Please note: choose one of the options below. If you are studying more biology courses you may want to choose the full text rather than the custom edition which only contains the reading for LFS100. n/a n/a
Required Urry LA, Meyers N, Cain ML, Wasserman SA, Minorsky PV, Orr RB, Burke da Silva K, Parkinson A, Lluka L and Chunduri P 2021 Campbell Biology (12th Ed) Pearson
Required Urry LA, Meyers N, Cain ML, Wasserman SA, Minorsky PV, Orr RB, Burke da Silva K, Parkinson A, Lluka L and Chunduri P. 2022 Cell Biology LFS 100 (Custom Edition) (4th Ed) n/a

Specific requirements

You must wear a lab coat, enclosed shoes, and safety glasses during laboratory classes. You must bring your own copy of the LFS100 Cell Biology Workbook: Workshop and Laboratory Manual to both laboratory and workshop classes. A bound copy of the workbook will be available for purchase from the UniSC MyPrint Shop, or alternatively, you may download a PDF copy from the Canvas course site, print the manual and bind it yourself.

How are risks managed in this course?

Risk assessments have been performed for all laboratory classes and a moderate level of health and safety risk exists. Moderate risks are those associated with laboratory work such as working with chemicals and hazardous substances. You will be required to undertake laboratory induction training and it is also your responsibility to review course material, search online, discuss with lecturers and peers and understand the health and safety risks associated with your specific course of study and to familiarise yourself with the University’s general health and safety principles by reviewing the online induction training for students, and following the instructions of the University staff

What administrative information is relevant to this course?

Assessment: Academic Integrity

Academic integrity is the ethical standard of university participation.  It ensures that students graduate as a result of proving they are competent in their discipline.  This is integral in maintaining the value of academic qualifications. Each industry has expectations and standards of the skills and knowledge within that discipline and these are reflected in assessment.

Academic integrity means that you do not engage in any activity that is considered to be academic fraud; including plagiarism, collusion or outsourcing any part of any assessment item to any other person.  You are expected to be honest and ethical by completing all work yourself and indicating in your work which ideas and information were developed by you and which were taken from others. You cannot provide your assessment work to others. You are also expected to provide evidence of wide and critical reading, usually by using appropriate academic references.

In order to minimise incidents of academic fraud, this course may require that some of its assessment tasks, when submitted to Canvas, are electronically checked through Turnitin.  This software allows for text comparisons to be made between your submitted assessment item and all other work to which Turnitin has access.

Assessment: Additional Requirements

Eligibility for Supplementary Assessment

Your eligibility for supplementary assessment in a course is dependent of the following conditions applying:
(a) The final mark is in the percentage range 47% to 49.4%; and
(b) The course is graded using the Standard Grading scale

Assessment: Submission penalties

Late submissions may be penalised up to and including the following maximum percentage of the assessment task’s identified value, with weekdays and weekends included in the calculation of days late:
(a) One day: deduct 5%;
(b) Two days: deduct 10%;
(c) Three days: deduct 20%;
(d) Four days: deduct 40%;
(e) Five days: deduct 60%;
(f) Six days: deduct 80%;
(g) Seven days: A result of zero is awarded for the assessment task.

The following penalties will apply for a late submission for an online examination:
Less than 15 minutes: No penalty
From 15 minutes to 30 minutes: 20% penalty
More than 30 minutes: 100% penalty

SafeUniSC

UniSC is committed to a culture of respect and providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of our community. For immediate assistance on campus contact SafeUniSC by phone: 07 5430 1168 or using the SafeZone app. For general enquires contact the SafeUniSC team by phone 07 5456 3864 or email safe@usc.edu.au.

The SafeUniSC Specialist Service is a Student Wellbeing service that provides free and confidential support to students who may have experienced or observed behaviour that could cause fear, offence or trauma. To contact the service call 07 5430 1226 or email studentwellbeing@usc.edu.au.

Study help

For help with course-specific advice, for example what information to include in your assessment, you should first contact your tutor, then your course coordinator, if needed.

If you require additional assistance, the Learning Advisers are trained professionals who are ready to help you develop a wide range of academic skills. Visit the Learning Advisers web page for more information, or contact Student Central for further assistance: +61 7 5430 2890 or studentcentral@usc.edu.au.

Wellbeing Services

Student Wellbeing provide free and confidential counselling on a wide range of personal, academic, social and psychological matters, to foster positive mental health and wellbeing for your academic success.

To book a confidential appointment go to Student Hub, email studentwellbeing@usc.edu.au or call 07 5430 1226.

AccessAbility Services

Ability Advisers ensure equal access to all aspects of university life. If your studies are affected by a disability, learning disorder mental health issue, injury or illness, or you are a primary carer for someone with a disability or who is considered frail and aged, AccessAbility Services can provide access to appropriate reasonable adjustments and practical advice about the support and facilities available to you throughout the University.

To book a confidential appointment go to Student Hub, email AccessAbility@usc.edu.au or call 07 5430 2890.

Links to relevant University policy and procedures

For more information on Academic Learning & Teaching categories including:

  • Assessment: Courses and Coursework Programs
  • Review of Assessment and Final Grades
  • Supplementary Assessment
  • Central Examinations
  • Deferred Examinations
  • Student Conduct
  • Students with a Disability

For more information, visit https://www.usc.edu.au/explore/policies-and-procedures#academic-learning-and-teaching

Student Charter

UniSC is committed to excellence in teaching, research and engagement in an environment that is inclusive, inspiring, safe and respectful. The Student Charter sets out what students can expect from the University, and what in turn is expected of students, to achieve these outcomes.

General Enquiries

  • In person:
    • UniSC Sunshine Coast - Student Central, Ground Floor, Building C, 90 Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs
    • UniSC Moreton Bay - Service Centre, Ground Floor, Foundation Building, Gympie Road, Petrie
    • UniSC SouthBank - Student Central, Building A4 (SW1), 52 Merivale Street, South Brisbane
    • UniSC Gympie - Student Central, 71 Cartwright Road, Gympie
    • UniSC Fraser Coast - Student Central, Student Central, Building A, 161 Old Maryborough Rd, Hervey Bay
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  • Tel:+61 7 5430 2890
  • Email:studentcentral@usc.edu.au