You are required to write an essay focusing on one or more of the module’s core themes, as
identified in the Module Aims and below. Clearly indicate below the title which theme(s) your
work is focusing on. The style and content of the essay should be tailored to an educated
non-specialist audience.
The essay’s structure should consist of:
• Title
• Module’s theme(s) addressed
• Body of the essay (think of having Introduction, Discussion, and Conclusions sections
– subheadings are optional)
• References
• Figures and Tables – these are optional. However, if you decide to include a figure
and/or table, it should be original or adapted from an adequately referenced source.
Make sure to include an explanatory figure/table legend underneath.
As a reminder, the module’s core themes are:
1. Structure of the nervous system
• Neuroanatomy
• Neurodevelopment
• Microscopy and animal models
2. Receptors, neurotransmitters, and drugs
• Basic concepts in neuropharmacology
• Neurotransmitter receptor signalling
3. Neurophysiology
• Electrophysiology
• Action potentials
• Synaptic function – presynaptic and postsynaptic
4. Cognitive neuroscience
• Learning, memory, and behaviour
• The biology of the mind
• Neuroscientific tools and techniques
2. Intended Learning Outcomes Assessed:
• The ability to communicate scientific concepts effectively using in written format
• Demonstrate appropriate assimilation of constructive comments to improve
academic performance
3. Word Count:
The essay should be 1200-word maximum. This includes the title, figures, tables, and
legends, but does not include the references.
4. Referencing Style and Guidance:
Referencing is required and should be formatted following Vancouver style.
Please follow the attached module aims and assignment brief thoroughly when writing the essay. Pick whichever aim you are most comfortable with writing about. My expectations of this essay is for it to score a first at a leading UK Russel group university.
