Scaling in biology Field of study: Biology
Programme code: W2-S1BI19.2023

Module name: Scaling in biology
Module code: 1BL_23_73
Programme code: W2-S1BI19.2023
Semester:
  • summer semester 2026/2027
  • winter semester 2026/2027
  • summer semester 2025/2026
  • winter semester 2025/2026
Language of instruction: depending on the choice
Form of verification: course work
ECTS credits: 3
Purpose and description of the content of education:
The subject enables students to acquire practical skills including comparing the scale of biological objects/structures observed at different levels of organization, understanding the related size hierarchy and its impact on the construction and functioning of structures from subcellular to organisms. During the course, the student is to realize the consequences for the functioning of organisms at every level of their organization, have shape, size and mutual relations of surface and volume. The aim of the course is for the student to obtain: (1) knowledge of the importance of size to the functioning of biological objects; (2) practical skills allowing to (a) determine the real dimensions of biological objects observed at various scales (from macro to nano) using optical and electron microscopes; (b) the use of linear and logarithmic scales as a tool to represent a wide range of measurement data; (c) the use of units and sub-units in sizing an object and assigning an appropriate scale; (3) competencies for independent and critical analysis of the obtained measurement results and discussion of the results in a group.
List of modules that must be completed before starting this module (if necessary): not applicable
Learning outcome of the module Codes of the learning outcomes of the programme to which the learning outcome of the module is related [level of competence: scale 1-5]
He understands the importance of knowledge in solving problems, is able to critically assess his knowledge and is ready to consult experts in case of difficulties with independent problem solving. [K_01]
 1BL_K01 [4/5]
He can use the basic techniques and research tools of experimental biology to determine the relationship shape, size and surface as well as the consequences of size relationships for the functioning of living organisms and mathematical and statistical methods to describe and analyze data. [U_01]
 1BL_U12 [4/5]
Is able to plan and perform simple physical, biological and chemical measurements in the laboratory and make the appropriate ones observation. [U_02]
 1BL_U12 [4/5]
Has knowledge of the basic laws of physics and chemistry necessary to understand natural processes and phenomena in terms of scaling various elements of the cell structure, organ tissues and nanstructures. [W_01]
 1BL_W01 [4/5]
Knows and understands the methodology of biological experimental research allowing to determine the actual dimensions biological objects and nanostructures. [W_02]
 1BL_W09 [4/5]
Form of teaching Number of hours Methods of conducting classes Assessment of the learning outcomes Learning outcomes
discussion classes [K_01] 10 Activating method – discussion / debate [b04] 
Activating method – flipped classroom [b09]  		course work U_02 W_01 W_02
laboratory classes [L_01] 20 Laboratory exercise / experiment [e01]  course work K_01 U_01 U_02 W_01 W_02
The student's work, apart from participation in classes, includes in particular:
Name Category Description
Developing practical skills [a03] Preparation for classes
activities involving the repetition, refinement and consolidation of practical skills, including those developed during previous classes or new skills necessary for the implementation of subsequent elements of the curriculum (as preparation for class participation)
Analysis of the corrective feedback provided by the academic teacher on the results of the verification of learning outcomes [d01] Consulting the results of the verification of learning outcomes
reading through the academic teacher’s comments, assessments and opinions on the implementation of the task aimed at checking the level of the achieved learning outcomes
Attachments
Module description (PDF)
Information concerning module syllabuses might be changed during studies.
Syllabuses (USOSweb)
Semester Module Language of instruction
(no information given)