BIOLOGY

The "Biology" course, included in the Foundation Year of Ca' Foscari University, aims to provide students with the basic knowledge of Biology, in order to facilitate their future access to the different degree courses, filling any gaps in the field of this subject. The course is structured in such a way as to provide all the knowledge necessary to be able to successfully pass any entrance tests and to be able to undertake scientific careers starting from a solid foundation.

The aim of this course is to learn the basis of Biology, with a critical and deductive approach, typical of science, and technical language. At the end of the course, the student will know the molecular basis of life, cellular functioning, the basis knowledge of inheritance and the organization of living beings on our planet.

There are no particular requirements for attending the course, other than a basic knowledge of chemistry.

The course is organized in 5 different chapters:
1- The molecular basis of life: water and its properties, biomolecules and the origin of life on earth.
2- Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
3- Communication between cells (structure and functions of the cell membrane, the main transport and signaling systems) and cellular metabolism (cellular respiration and photosynthesis)
4- DNA and reproduction: replication, transcription, translation, mitosis and meiosis
5- Classical genetics, modern evolutionary theories and classification of living beings

Lessons are carried out with the support of slides and other multimedia tools. For any clarifications or insights, the text "the science of Biology" in PDF format is available on the Moodle platform.

At the end of each chapter, students will take a test to verify their learning. Tests are structured with multiple choice questions and open questions, so as to be able to evaluate the critical and deductive approach, typical of scientific subjects. At the end of the course there is a final exam including all the topics covered. Participation of the student during the lessons will also be taken into account.

Lessons will be taught class, with the support of slides. Multimedia tools such as videos or online activities will be used for greater student engagement. Occasionally group work will be required (flipped classroom).

English

written

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Natural capital and environmental quality" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development