ANAT 260 Human Anatomy: Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Course Description

This course provides a logical analysis of body tissues, organs, and organ systems. It emphasizes the microscopic, developmental, and gross anatomy of mammals, with a special focus on human anatomy. Major topics include cell structure and function, tissues, organization of the human body, and all body systems. Laboratory work includes study of developmental, microscopic, and digital body images.

• Total Course Credits: 4

• Total Course Hours: 83

• Lecture Hours (Online Asynchronous): 47

Meeting Times

• Format: Online, 10 weeks

• Class Week: Monday to Sunday, ends at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time)

• Live Sessions: Optional synchronous sessions via Zoom (e.g., Thursday 11:30 AM–1:00 PM, Thursday 1:00 PM–2:00 PM for tutoring)

Course Learning Outcomes

Key Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Define the four levels of human body organization (anatomical position, planes, directions) and apply these to practical implications such as addressing the location of different body parts.

2. Explain the characteristics of a eukaryotic cell, its organelles, and their main functions.

3. Classify the four types of tissues and differentiate their characteristic features.

4. Describe the identifying features of each organ, including location, related structures, blood and nerve supply, and microscopic features.

5. Demonstrate knowledge of all organ systems by defining and explaining the components, relative positions, and anatomical interrelationships of the organs within each system.

6. Identify tissues and organs on histological slides, anatomical models, and biological specimens, and demonstrate the skills of proper microscope use and safe dissecting techniques.

Major Topics and Subtopics

Levels of Body Organization

The human body is organized into hierarchical levels, each with distinct structural and functional properties.

• Cellular Level: Basic unit of life; includes eukaryotic cells with organelles such as nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum.

• Tissue Level: Groups of similar cells performing a common function. Four main types: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.

• Organ Level: Structures composed of two or more tissue types working together (e.g., heart, liver).

• Organ System Level: Groups of organs that perform related functions (e.g., digestive system, nervous system).

Cell Structure and Function

Eukaryotic cells are the building blocks of human tissues and organs.

• Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA) and controls cellular activities.

• Mitochondria: Site of ATP production; the cell's energy powerhouse.

• Endoplasmic Reticulum: Synthesizes proteins (rough ER) and lipids (smooth ER).

• Plasma Membrane: Regulates entry and exit of substances.

Tissue Classification

Tissues are classified based on their structure and function.

• Epithelial Tissue: Covers body surfaces and lines cavities; functions in protection, absorption, and secretion.

• Connective Tissue: Supports, binds, and protects organs; includes bone, blood, and adipose tissue.

• Muscle Tissue: Responsible for movement; includes skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle.

• Nervous Tissue: Conducts electrical impulses; found in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.

Organ Systems Overview

Each organ system consists of multiple organs working together to perform vital functions.

• Examples: Cardiovascular system (heart, blood vessels), respiratory system (lungs, trachea), digestive system (stomach, intestines).

• Interrelationships: Systems interact to maintain homeostasis (e.g., respiratory and circulatory systems work together for gas exchange).

Microscopy and Dissection Skills

Laboratory work involves identifying tissues and organs using microscopes and anatomical models.

• Microscope Use: Proper handling, focusing, and identification of histological features.

• Dissection Techniques: Safe and accurate identification of anatomical structures in specimens.

Course Materials

• Textbook: Human Anatomy by Frederic H. Martini, Robert B. Tallitsch, Judi L. Nath (Pearson)

• Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th Edition, APA)

• Complete Anatomy Platform: Digital resource for anatomical visualization

Evaluation and Grading

Grading Scale

Grade	Grade Points
A	4.0
A-	3.7
B+	3.3
B	3.0
B-	2.7
C+	2.3
C	2.0
C-	1.7
D+	1.3
D	1.0
D-	0.7
F	0.0
AU	0.0
CR	0.0
P	0.0

Evaluation Criteria

• Formative Assessments: Ongoing feedback and support (e.g., interactive episodes, quizzes, case studies).

• Summative Assessments: Signature assignments, exams, and projects designed to measure achievement of learning outcomes.

Assignment	Weight (%)	Week Due	Description
Interactive Episodes	80	1-4, 6-9	Watch the episode and answer the questions within.

Note: The Week 10 assignment for online classes is due by Monday, 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time) of Week 10.

General Education Program Outcomes

• Employ effective communication skills

• Interpret quantitative data using mathematical principles

• Locate information through multiple sources

• Demonstrate critical thinking skills

Additional Info

• All assignments must be submitted online; late assignments may be penalized.

• Students are responsible for obtaining all required course materials.

• Minimum passing grade required for program progression.