Africa Virtual University - AVU

Mode of Delivery:

1. Rationale

This module introduces the study of some representative compounds of macromolecular nature which are vital for the balance, development, maintenance and supplement of living organisms. The module solidifies and extends knowledge obtained from previous modules mainly on Aldehydes, Ketones and amino acids, linking them to the organism’s vital functions. The study on the contents of this module will give knowledge about properties and the activity of some of the main macromolecules for the survival of organisms.

2. Prerequisite or Knowledge

The student must possess knowledge of the basic contents covered in chemistry curriculum and, in particular, topics concerning modules 5, 6, 7, mainly:

3.  General objective(s)

Module 8 (macromolecules in the biological system) offers the basic fundamentals about the main theoretical and practical aspects of macromolecule chemistry. This module systematically discusses some of the main classes of organic macromolecular compounds of vital importance for the living organisms, they are: Carbohydrates (Glucids), Proteins and Lipids. This module also analyzes the relation between the structures, properties, reactivity, and the physical-chemical behavior of the organic compounds of great molecular weight. Studying the module will deepen the knowledge about organic compounds and help establish a correlation between structure of matter and its properties. Develops the ability to make critical observation, and reasoning permitting thus the best application and/or usage of these compounds.

4. Time

To cover this module it will require 120 hours.

5. Material

Module 8 (macromolecules in the biological system) is based on the following learning material: chemistry school books, chemistry educational software, virtual computerised experiments, simple experiments, textbooks and manuals.