Level 3 Human Biology Diploma

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Course Content

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 1: The Chemistry of Life and Cells

The first simple organism that formed on earth was only one-cell big. These cell creatures developed and became complex. The basic structure and function of cells is explored since all the chemical processes essential to life occur here. These cells are the building blocks of, e.g. our organs from skin to the heart to the brain, as well as of biological synthesis for all organisms. In order for our body to function, the transport of materials in and out of cells as well as around e.g. the body is considered. We look at cells in detail and their functions from how they transport, reproduce and join to form more complicated structures. How we studied and used techniques like chromatography to investigate and learn about cellular activities is also covered.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 2: Gaseous Exchange, Enzymes and Digestion

This module looks at the structure and function of the digestive system, respiratory system and the role of enzymes in vital processes essential to nutrient extraction and assimilation. Each topic is linked to provide a logical overview of how oxygen is exchanged between the atmosphere and the blood, together with how the biochemical processes are initiated in order to maintain equilibrium within the body tissues, so how oxygen is used to convert glucose to energy, for example. How digestion occurs and all waste is removed in both cellular to larger organisms is discussed as this helps us understand how life on earth has developed from how bacteria and fungi composts garden waste to the breakdown of food in bodies.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 3: Genes, Cell Cycles and Genetic Engineering and its Applications

The processes that continually occur within the cells of our body are essential to growth, repair and function. This module examines processes of how cells replicate and reproduce in detail, and presents both description and explanation of the genetic code, DNA – gene expression in humans and how variation and mutation occurs within a species. The module links the biological evidence to techniques and concepts of genetic engineering which is relevant to human existence today, for example in how we produce seeds to grow pest-resistant wheat. In addition there will be discussion about genetic markers for disease screening and the issues surrounding gene therapy. Historic discovery through experiments and development of theories related to each topic is also discussed, e.g. Mendelian genetics.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 4: The Mammal, Bacteria and Viruses

In this module we look at the structure and function of the human circulatory system including cardiac cycle and cardiac output. We also examine the composition of blood and the microbiology of viruses and bacteria which are similar in function to the cells within the body; also discussing how these are transported around the body. How oxygen and what else is needed gets to each cell and is able to have all its waste removed is shown. This is a comprehensive module, spanning many body systems but will provide a logical overview of how ‘foreign’ material enters the body and affects wellbeing, e.g. how a coccus bacterium gives a sore throat and how taking medicines or antibiotics can make us better.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 5: Biotechnology, Antibiotics, Disease and Diagnosis

As well as causing disease and illness, there are also “good” micro-organisms such as those used in making bread, yoghurt, beer, ethanol, antibiotics or those found in human stomachs. How the best organisms are selected and how they work is discussed, as well as how resistance builds up, e.g. to antibiotics. This module is a logical progression from module 4, and so looks at a variety of diseases (many but not all are caused by Bacteria and Virus e.g. ‘flu, laryngitis, Mumps, HIV) and their diagnosis. It will briefly present a range of symptoms and discuss the possible outcomes of these diseases in relation to each system. The module also looks at the history, production and application of antibiotics, screening processes and disease differentiation.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 6: Respiration, Photosynthesis, Stimulus and Response

Respiration and photosynthesis are the two most important processes in Biology; they are the reverse of each other. Metabolism refers to all chemical reactions in the cell, and respiration and photosynthesis are two such examples of light energy being changed into useful energy so we can move, talk etc. We are also able to react to stimuli in the environment. The way we react to stimuli is vital to continued successful existence, and is done by the endocrine and central nervous system. The structure and function of the nervous system, so how humans respond to various stimuli such as pain, danger etc. and how this information is passed around the body is detailed in order to understand how everything in humans is controlled from e.g. sight, breathing, memory, moving away from fire to producing hormones and enzymes.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 7: Hormones, Homeostasis, Muscle and Movement

The nervous and endocrine systems complement each other in order to control biological systems. This module will explore the way in which the human body maintains a steady internal environment. Endocrine glands secrete hormones into tissue fluid which directly diffuses into the blood stream, and exocrine glands secrete into cavities e.g. digestive chemicals or to the outside such as sweat glands. Incorporated within this module will be the structure and function of the musculoskeletal system and how this relates to maintaining homeostasis, particularly movement such as walking and the heart pumping blood around the body.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 8: Genetics, Variation and Evolution

Evolution and natural selection within any species is dynamic. Continuing from the earlier mention of Gregor Mendel (1822-84), this module examines human evolution, the various theories (e.g. Darwins), and the impact of genetics on diversity, variation and natural selection processes. Sex determination is discussed in some depth and related to different non-genetic influences. In addition, inheritance will be looked at in respect of evolutionary processes, how organisms developed and are classified.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 9: Environment

Why do we live where we do, in such diverse environments from Greenland to the desserts in Mali, Africa. The environment is crucial to human survival. In this module we will examine energy and nutrient flows (through various cycles e.g. the carbon and Nitrogen cycles), as well as looking at ecosystems and their role in human endurance. The module will examine farming methods and food production relevant to human nutritional needs and problems. In addition various trophic levels and the role of other animals and plant life in relation to our own existence is discussed. Concepts of human survival, population, competition for survival, and health related to planetary wellbeing and changes will be covered.

Level 3 Human Biology Diploma Module 10: Life Cycle

Clearly, reproduction sets living and non-living things a part, otherwise robots really could replace humans. In this final module reproduction, growth and development will be looked at in some detail. Exploration of different ages of human beings will include looking at relevant processes such as language acquisition, child development stages and what affects us and happens to us in old age. The marvel of pregnancy and birth will be covered and related to different essentials of life such as healthy diet, digestion, wellbeing and how these things are linked to cognitive and physical development.