Anatomy & Physiology – AHS 132: Course Overview and Study Guide

Course Overview

This study guide summarizes the key topics, objectives, and expectations for Anatomy & Physiology – AHS 132, a college-level course focusing on the structure and function of the human body. The course covers major organ systems, physiological processes, and scientific methods relevant to healthcare and biological sciences.

Course Description

• Continuation of Human Anatomy and Physiology: Builds on foundational knowledge from AHS 131, emphasizing the study of the endocrine, cardiovascular, reticuloendothelial (lymphatic and immunity), respiratory, digestive, urinary, and male and female reproductive systems.

• Microscopic and Macroscopic Examination: Includes both gross and microscopic analysis of tissues and organs.

• Integration of Structure and Function: Focuses on how anatomical structures relate to physiological functions.

• Preparation for Healthcare Professions: Designed for students pursuing careers in health-related fields.

Major Topics and Learning Objectives

1. Human Anatomy: Terminology and Structure

Understanding the language and organization of the human body is essential for effective communication in healthcare and science.

• Key Terms: Anatomy (study of structure), Physiology (study of function), Homeostasis (maintenance of internal stability).

• Systemic Approach: Study of body systems such as endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.

• Relationships: How anatomical structures of different systems interact and support overall body function.

• Example: The heart (cardiovascular system) pumps blood, which transports hormones (endocrine system) and immune cells (lymphatic system) throughout the body.

2. Physiological Function: Understanding Human Physiology

Physiology explores how the body’s systems work individually and together to maintain life.

• Processes Studied: Gas exchange (respiratory), nutrient absorption (digestive), waste elimination (urinary), hormone regulation (endocrine), immune defense (lymphatic), and reproduction.

• Medical Terminology: Mastery of terms describing physiological processes and diseases.

• Example: Insulin secretion by the pancreas regulates blood glucose levels (endocrine system).

3. Natural Science: Understanding the Scientific Method

Scientific inquiry is fundamental to anatomy and physiology, guiding research and evidence-based practice.

• Scientific Method Steps:

  1. Observation

  2. Hypothesis formation

  3. Experimentation

  4. Data collection and analysis

  5. Conclusion

• Application: Students will conduct laboratory experiments, analyze data, and interpret results.

• Example: Measuring the effect of exercise on heart rate to understand cardiovascular physiology.

4. Critical Thinking and Communication

Developing analytical and communication skills is crucial for success in science and healthcare.

• Critical Thinking: Identifying, analyzing, and evaluating arguments and scientific data.

• Communication: Presenting findings clearly in written and oral formats.

• Example: Writing a lab report that interprets experimental results and draws logical conclusions.

Course Structure and Assessment

Lecture and Laboratory Components

• Lectures: Cover theoretical concepts, anatomical structures, and physiological mechanisms.

• Laboratory: Hands-on activities, dissections, microscopy, and experiments to reinforce lecture material.

Assessment Methods

• Exams and Quizzes: Multiple lecture exams and laboratory practicals, including fill-in-the-blank and identification questions.

• Projects: Critical thinking, natural science, or written communication assignments.

• Group Work: Collaborative learning and peer interaction are encouraged.

Textbooks and Resources

• Lecture Textbook: Martini, F., Nath, J. L., & Bartholomew, E. F. (2018). Fundamentals of Anatomy & Physiology.

• Laboratory Manual: Wood, M. G., Oher, W. C., Garrison, C. W., & Hutchings, R. T. (2017). Laboratory Manual for Anatomy & Physiology: Featuring Martini Art.

• Suggested Reading: Heisler, R. (2015). A Photographic Atlas for Anatomy & Physiology.

• Online Resources: Pearson Mastering A & P website, Brightspace learning platform, and library services.

Student Responsibilities and Policies

• Participation: Active engagement in lectures, labs, and group work is required.

• Study Time: Minimum of three hours of study per class hour; at least 18 hours per week recommended.

• Attendance: Mandatory for both lectures and labs; excessive absences may result in being dropped from the course.

• Academic Integrity: Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

• Electronic Devices: Use is restricted during class and exams unless permitted by the instructor.

Summary Table: Major Organ Systems Covered

System	Main Functions	Key Structures
Endocrine	Hormone production and regulation	Pituitary gland, thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas
Cardiovascular	Transport of blood, nutrients, gases, wastes	Heart, blood vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries)
Reticuloendothelial (Lymphatic & Immunity)	Immune defense, fluid balance	Lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, lymphatic vessels
Respiratory	Gas exchange (O2 and CO2)	Lungs, trachea, bronchi, diaphragm
Digestive	Breakdown and absorption of nutrients	Mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, liver
Urinary	Excretion of wastes, water and electrolyte balance	Kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra
Reproductive	Production of gametes, reproduction	Ovaries, testes, uterus, prostate

Key Definitions

• Anatomy: The study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another.

• Physiology: The study of the function of the body’s structural machinery.

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment despite external changes.

• Scientific Method: A systematic approach to research and experimentation in science.

Formulas and Equations

• Body Mass Index (BMI): $BMI = \frac{weight\ (kg)}{height^2\ (m^2)}$

• Cardiac Output: $Cardiac\ Output = Stroke\ Volume \times Heart\ Rate$

• Ohm’s Law for Circulation: $Blood\ Flow = \frac{Pressure}{Resistance}$

Additional Info

• Additional info: The course emphasizes critical thinking, scientific literacy, and ethical conduct in academic work. Students are encouraged to use all available resources, including textbooks, online platforms, and library materials, to support their learning.