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Foundations in Biology

Module 2 establishes the cellular and molecular baseline for the rest of the course. Most later topics depend on these structures, processes and vocabulary.

Core Role

  • Build secure knowledge of cell structure, ultrastructure and microscopy.
  • Link molecular structure to biological function.
  • Introduce DNA, RNA, ATP, enzymes and membrane transport.
  • Connect cell division and differentiation to tissue organisation and stem cells.

Topic Guide

Each Module 2 topic page now opens with a learner-facing What You Need to Learn section. Use these links to jump straight to a quick topic summary before moving into the detailed notes.

Topic Main focus
2.1.1 Cell structure microscopy and resolution; measuring and drawing cells; organelles; prokaryote vs eukaryote comparisons
2.1.2 Biological molecules molecular building blocks; water and ions; carbohydrates; lipids; proteins
2.1.3 Nucleotides and nucleic acids DNA and RNA structure; replication; transcription and translation; ATP
2.1.4 Enzymes enzyme action; rate factors; cofactors and inhibitors; data interpretation
2.1.5 Biological membranes membrane structure; membrane fluidity; transport mechanisms; osmosis and water potential
2.1.6 Cell division, cell diversity and cellular organisation chromosomes and the cell cycle; mitosis; meiosis and variation; specialisation and stem cells

Topic Pages