Print Syllabus

Syllabus

KE0080 Wood- and biochemistry, 7.5 Credits

Vedens och biomassans kemi

Subjects

Chemistry

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has only upper-secondary level entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G1N)

Grading scale

Language

Swedish

Prior knowledge

Biology 2, alternatively Biology B

Chemistry 2, alternatively Chemistry B

Objectives

The course will provide in-depth knowledge in the areas of chemistry that are a prerequisite for a deeper understanding of the biochemistry of the forest ecosystem, including the chemistry of the tree and the wood raw material.

After completing the course, the student should be able to:

• describe the synthesis, structure and function of biomolecules with a focus on wood chemistry.

• describe the most important wood chemical components.

• describe general analysis methods for characterizing the chemistry and biomolecules of the tree.

• describe the most important enzymes and their function in DNA, RNA and protein metabolism, and describe basic analysis tools for these. • explain how genetic information is transferred in a cell.

• describe how the properties of wood affect various processing processes.

• present results from laboratory work in writing.

Content

Subject content

The course provides an in-depth theory in organic chemistry and biochemistry with a focus on the function and structure of the cell, including wood chemical components and extractives. The course has a special focus on wood chemistry and its applications in wood chemical processes, as well as general analysis methods for characterizing the chemistry of the tree and biomolecules. In addition, the course provides an in-depth biochemical theory in molecular biology with a focus on the transfer of genetic information in a cell. The course contains various pedagogical elements such as lectures, exercises, laboratory exercises and a study visit.

Implementation

The course uses various teaching methods to promote student learning and discussions through:

lectures, exercises, study visits, self-study of course literature, group studies of scientific articles, and writing reports. Study visits and laboratory exercises are mandatory parts of the course. The course focuses on the following general competencies

• Analytical skills: Students learn to analyze biological data and draw conclusions based on scientific evidence.

• Problem solving: The course encourages critical thinking and problem solving skills, where students are challenged to solve practical and theoretical problems in wood and biochemistry.

• Communication: Through report writing and group discussions, students develop their skills in effectively communicating scientific information, both written and oral.

• Collaboration: The course promotes collaboration through group work and projects, where students learn to work together to achieve common goals.

• Independent learning: Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning through self-study and reflection, which strengthens their ability to work independently.

The following elements are mandatory

Study visits, laboratory exercisesSkicka feedback

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Passed written exam, passed written assignments and completed mandatory elements.

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• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible department

Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology

Cooperating departments: