Outline

Overview

This unit will provide a brief introduction to the fundamental concepts of genetics and disease-causing variants. It will explore the structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) of the human body, focusing on the contributions of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems to maintenance of homeostasis, health and well-being across the lifespan. It will then explore interrelationships between cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems and how they enable the normal activities of life and set the scene for integration with units exploring other organ systems. It will take an applied approach providing examples of disease states affecting these systems, such as heart disease and kidney failure, to lay critical foundations for senior units that consider disease processes in detail.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Department of Medical Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	BBHE1003
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	No

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Jaimie Polson, jaimie.polson@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 August 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final Exam: BBHE1011 + BBHE1003 Written examination aligned with content from BBHE1003.	30%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Progress Quizzes Regular quizzes based on Module content. Total of 6 quizzes over semester. Weeks 4,6,7,9,11,13	9%	Multiple weeks	10 min/quiz	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Canvas quiz Canvas quiz - early feedback test	1%	Week 02 Due date: 14 Aug 2026 at 23:55	10 min	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	The Genome Quiz Paper test	10%	Week 03 Due date: 19 Aug 2026 at 09:00	30 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written test	In-semester test Written Paper test	30%	Week 08 Due date: 25 Sep 2026 at 14:00	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Presentation	Group Presentation Group poster presentation plus answering questions on a topic from any of the modules.	20%	Week 13 Due date: 03 Nov 2026 at 17:00	20 minutes	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= group assignment ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

The Genome quiz will be held during a scheduled practical class or tutorial.听 Students are required to complete each quiz during the class in which it is held.

Progress quizzes: Each quiz will be available online for a limited time. Students will be advised when quizzes are available and must complete the quizzes within the period of availability.

Group Presentation: 听Presentations will be held during a scheduled practical class or tutorial. Students are required to complete presentations and answer questions during the class in which it is held.

In-semester test: This examination will cover respiratory system and cardiovascular system (anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology).

End semester exam: This examination will cover cardiovascular system, urinary system and digestive system and is aligned with content from BBHE1003.

Assessment criteria

Assessment grading (mark and grade units):鈥赌�The University awards common result grades, set out in the (Schedule 1).听

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.听

骋谤补诲别听	顿别蝉肠谤颈辫迟辞谤蝉听	Explanation / Interpretation听
High distinction (85 - 100)听	Work of exceptional standard听	Mastery of topics showing extensive integration and ability to transfer knowledge to novel contexts; treatment of tasks shows an advanced synthesis of ideas; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is very well presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an outstanding level.听
Distinction (75 - 84)听	Work of superior standard听	Excellent achievement, consistent evidence of deep understanding and application of knowledge; treatment of tasks shows advanced understanding of topics; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is well-presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a superior level.听
Credit (65 - 74)听	Competent work demonstrating potential for higher study听	Confident in explaining concepts, with evidence of solid understanding and鈥�achievement; occasional lapses indicative of some knowledge gaps; treatment of tasks shows a good understanding of topic; work is well-presented with a minimum of errors; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a high level.听
Pass (50 - 64)听	Work of acceptable standard听	Satisfactory level of engagement with and understanding of topic; some inconsistencies in understanding and knowledge; work is adequately presented, with some errors or omissions, most criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an adequate level.听
Fail (0 - 49)听	Work not of acceptable standard听	Unsatisfactory achievement and engagement with the discipline; inadequate understanding or fundamental misunderstanding of topics; most criteria and learning outcomes not clearly or adequately addressed or achieved; lack of effort/involvement in the unit.听

听

Paired assessment(s):听

This unit contains the following paired assessment (s):听

BBHE1003/1011 鈥� Final exam (exam period)听

听

Marking of paired assessments will be as follows:鈥�

Assessment of learning outcomes from one unit will be awarded only to that unit using鈥痑n appropriate rubric.鈥�

Assessment of learning outcomes in both units will be awarded to both units using鈥痑n appropriate rubric.听

Assessment of learning outcomes in鈥痝rade-only units, will be assessed against meeting the required competency level using鈥痑n appropriate rubric.鈥赌€�

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the听Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the听Current Students website听for more information on AI in assessments, including听details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

Late penalties (mark and grade unit): On-time submission of assessments and meeting deadlines is a key aspect of professionalism in the healthcare sector. Assessments submitted late without permission (see Special Considerations: http://sydney.edu.au/students/special-consideration-and-arrangements.html) will incur a late penalty equal to 5% of the maximum awardable mark per day. These deductions will continue for 10 calendar days or until the solutions for the assignment are released or marked assignments are returned to other students. At that point the mark awarded will be zero. For example, on an assignment given a mark of 70/100, the penalty would be 5 marks if submitted up to 24 hours late, resulting in a final mark of 65/100. If the assignment is submitted 6 days late, the penalty would be 30 marks and the final mark would be 40/100. If the assignment is more than 10 days late or submitted after the solutions for the assignment are released or marked assignments are returned to other students, the final mark will be zero.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website听provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the听Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM)听which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the听Current Students website听for more information on AI in assessments, including听details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a听simple extension.鈥� The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can鈥檛 complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for听special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students,听听includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy听reflects the University鈥檚 commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	The Genome 1	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Foundations of genetics	Tutorial (1 hr)
	DNA extraction	Practical (3 hr)
Week 02	The Genome 2	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Genes in health and society; Ethics and privacy	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Analysis of gene expression; Genetic counselling	Practical (3 hr)
Week 03	Respiratory System 1	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	From airways to alveoli: ventilation and gas exchange	Tutorial (1 hr)
	The Genome	Assessment (1 hr)
	Introduction to Respiratory Anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
Week 04	Respiratory System 2	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Lung volumes, airflow and interpreting spirometry	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Lung function tests and spirometry	Practical (3 hr)
Week 05	Respiratory System 3	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Breathing under challenge: exercise, altitude and breath-holding	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Control of breathing: responses to exercise and breath-holding	Practical (2 hr)
Week 06	Cardiovascular System 1	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	From chambers to circulation: cardiovascular anatomy and blood flow	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Camperdown: The lungs, the heart and major vessels	Practical (3 hr)
Week 07	CVS 2	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Electrical activity of the heart: conduction and the ECG	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Recording and interpreting the ECG	Practical (3 hr)
Week 08	CVS 3	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Cardiac output and blood pressure: regulation in health and disease	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Cardiovascular responses to posture and exercise	Practical (2 hr)
	In-semester test	Assessment (1 hr)
Week 09	Urinary System 1	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	From blood to urine: filtration, reabsorption and secretion	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Urinary anatomy: kidneys, nephrons and the urinary tract	Practical (3 hr)
Week 10	Urinary System 2	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Maintaining the internal environment: water, electrolytes and acid鈥揵ase balance	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Urine analysis	Practical (2 hr)
Week 11	Digestive System 1	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	From mouth to colon: digestive anatomy and the journey of a meal	Tutorial (1 hr)
	Camperdown anatomy: urinary and digestive systems	Practical (3 hr)
Week 12	Digestive System 2	Self-directed learning (2 hr)
	Food to fuel: digestion, absorption and digestive disorders	Tutorial (2 hr)
	Electrogastrography: gastric electrical activity before and after eating	Practical (2 hr)
Week 13	Group poster presentations and talks	Assessment (3 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Participation:听Each week this unit听consists of听two听face-to-face classes totalling 4 hours; comprising a tutorial and a workshop/practical.听

Participation in these face-to-face classes is听compulsory, and a requirement to successfully complete the听UoS. Students are expected to attend听a minimum of听80% of timetabled activities as defined in the unit of study outline.听

Before attending听the tutorial听and听workshop/practical class, students鈥痵hould watch the accompanying lecturettes and听complete any听accompanying听formative quizzes.听听

The 爆料王 Coursework Policy 2021 states:鈥�
68 (2) A student enrolled in a unit of study must comply with the requirements set out in the faculty resolutions, award course resolutions or unit of study outline about undertaking the unit of study, including on matters such as: (a) attendance at and participation in lectures, seminars and tutorials; and (b) participation in practical work.听

68 (3) A program director may specify the circumstances under which a student who does not satisfy attendance and participation requirements may be听deemed听not to have completed a unit of study or award course.听

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Identify and explain the basic structure and relationships between DNA, RNA and proteins, normal genetic variation and introductory examples of genetic diseases
LO2. Identify and describe the basic form and function of the body systems covered in this unit, with focus on the respiratory, cardiovascular, urinary and digestive systems
LO3. Explain foundational physiological processes that contribute to homeostasis of each of these systems and outline how inter-relationships between them maintain normal function
LO4. Discuss common examples of diseases arising from disruptions to these body systems. Interpret simple experimental or case-based data (eg. spirometry, EGC) to explain their physiological impact.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all 爆料王 graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one鈥檚 personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

This is the first time this unit has been offered.

Additional information

Formative assessment:听

Definition: Assessments that do not contribute to passing the unit or the final grade/mark听听听
Purpose: To guide instruction, provide timely feedback, and help students improve.听
Timing: Ongoing, frequent, during the learning process.听听
Stakes: Low-stakes or ungraded.听
Feedback: Detailed, developmental, and immediate.听听
Examples: weekly practice quizzes, in-class questions and worksheets.听

Summative assessment:听听

Definition: Assessments that do contribute to passing the unit or the final grade/mark听听听
Purpose: To evaluate overall learning, measure achievement, and determine competency.听
Timing: Mid-semester test (e.g. week 7/8), towards the end of the unit, exam period.听
Stakes: High-stakes, graded, affects advancement.听
Feedback: Final, evaluative (e.g., score, grade).听听
Examples: In semester tests, interactive oral exam, written exam.听听

Disclaimer

Important: the 爆料王 regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an .

爆料王

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

BBHE1011: The Body in Balance: Genetics and Homeostasis

Semester 2, 2026 [Normal day] - Westmead, Sydney

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links