Anatomy & Physiology I (BIOL-2401) Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Overview: Anatomy & Physiology I (BIOL-2401)

Course Description

This course provides a comprehensive study of the structure and function of the human body, focusing on cells, tissues, and organs of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. It is designed for students pursuing careers in health sciences and related fields.

• Prerequisite: TSI Complete in Reading

• Credits: 4 (Lecture and Lab)

• Textbook: Marieb Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th Edition

• Lab Manual: Human Anatomy & Physiology Laboratory Manual, Cat Version, 14th Edition

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

• PLO 1: Apply the scientific method to experiments and data interpretation.

• PLO 2: Demonstrate knowledge of cell structure, metabolism, genetics, physiology, and molecular processes.

• PLO 3: Describe the theory of evolution and its impact on biology.

• PLO 4: Use scientific terminology and taxonomy; explain classification and phylogenies.

• PLO 5: Describe microbial mechanisms of pathogenicity.

• PLO 6: Describe the anatomy and physiology of tissues, organs, and organ systems.

• PLO 7: Explain principles of homeostasis.

• PLO 8: Describe organism interactions in ecosystems.

• PLO 9: Explain genetic inheritance and predict genetic outcomes.

Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)

• Identify causes and effects of homeostatic imbalances.

• Describe modern technology and tools used in anatomy and physiology.

• Explain how organs and systems maintain homeostasis.

• Use anatomical terminology to identify and describe organ locations.

• Describe interdependency and interactions among systems.

• Explain relationships among molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ functions.

• Apply safety and ethical standards in laboratory settings.

• Locate and identify anatomical structures.

• Utilize laboratory equipment appropriately.

• Work collaboratively in experiments.

• Demonstrate the scientific method.

• Communicate scientific results, analyze data, and draw conclusions.

• Use critical thinking and scientific problem-solving skills.

Core Objectives

• Critical Thinking Skills: Creative thinking, inquiry, analysis, evaluation, and synthesis.

• Communication Skills: Effective written, oral, and visual communication.

• Empirical and Quantitative Skills: Analysis of numerical data and observable facts.

• Teamwork: Collaboration and consideration of diverse perspectives.

• Social Responsibility: Intercultural competence and civic engagement.

• Personal Responsibility: Ethical decision-making and understanding consequences.

Course Requirements & Grading

• Lecture: 75% of grade (Exams, Quizzes, Assignments, Research Paper, Final Exam, Participation)

• Lab: 25% of grade (Lab Practicals, Lab Quizzes, Assignments)

• Grading Scale:

  • A: 100-90% (1500-1350 points)

  • B: 89-80% (1349-1200 points)

  • C: 79-70% (1199-1050 points)

  • D: 69-60% (1049-900 points)

  • F: 59-0% (899-0 points)

Major Topics & Weekly Outline

• Ch. 1: The Human Body: An Orientation

• Ch. 2: Chemistry Comes Alive

• Ch. 3: Cells: The Living Units

• Ch. 4: Tissue: The Living Fabric

• Ch. 5: The Integumentary System

• Ch. 6: Bones and Skeletal Tissue

• Ch. 7: The Skeleton

• Ch. 8: Joints

• Ch. 9: Muscles and Muscle Tissue

• Ch. 10: The Muscular System

• Ch. 11: Fundamentals of the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue

• Ch. 12: The Central Nervous System

• Ch. 13: The Peripheral Nervous System and Reflex Activity

• Ch. 14: The Autonomic Nervous System

• Ch. 15: The Special Senses

Each week includes lectures, quizzes, assignments, and laboratory exercises corresponding to the chapter topics. Exams and lab practicals are scheduled throughout the semester, culminating in a comprehensive final exam.

Laboratory Safety & Ethics

• Proper attire (lab coats, gloves, closed-toe shoes) is required.

• No eating or drinking in the lab.

• Follow all safety protocols and sign a safety contract.

• Academic integrity is strictly enforced; use of AI for assignments is prohibited unless specified.

Institutional Policies & Student Support

• Non-discrimination, Title IX, ADA, and support for pregnant/parenting students are enforced.

• Veterans and students with disabilities have access to dedicated support services.

• Starfish Early Alert System is used for academic progress monitoring and communication.

Course Communication & Participation

• Active participation and timely communication with the instructor are expected.

• Attendance is required; excessive absences may result in being dropped from the course.

• Respectful behavior and proper netiquette are mandatory in all interactions.

Extra Credit & Copyright

• Extra credit opportunities are available but not guaranteed.

• All course materials are protected by copyright; unauthorized sharing is prohibited.

Sample Weekly Schedule Table

Week	Lecture Topic	Lab Exercise	Assessment
1	Ch 1 - The Human Body: An Orientation	Language of Anatomy	Quiz, Assignment
2	Ch 2 - Chemistry Comes Alive	Organ System Overview, The Microscope	Quiz, Assignment
3	Ch 3 - Cells: The Living Units	Cell Anatomy & Division	Quiz, Assignment, Lab Quiz
4	Ch 4 - Tissues	Classification of Tissues	Quiz, Assignment, Exam
5	Ch 5 - Integumentary System	Integumentary System	Quiz, Assignment, Lab Quiz
6	Ch 6 - Bones & Skeletal Tissue	Skeleton Overview, Bones & Cartilage	Quiz, Assignment, Exam
7	Ch 7 - The Skeleton; Ch 8 - Joints	Axial Skeleton	Quiz, Assignment
8	Ch 9 - Muscle & Muscular Tissue	Appendicular Skeleton, Articulations	Quiz, Assignment, Exam
9	Ch 10 - Muscular System	Microscopic Anatomy of Muscle	Quiz, Assignment, Lab Practical
10	Ch 11 - Nervous System	Gross Anatomy of Muscular System	Quiz, Assignment, Exam
11	Ch 12 - Central Nervous System	Histology of Nervous Tissue	Quiz, Assignment
12	Ch 13 - Peripheral Nervous System	Brain & Cranial Nerves	Quiz, Assignment, Lab Quiz
13	Ch 14 - Autonomic Nervous System	Spinal Cord, Spinal Nerves	Quiz, Assignment, Exam
14	Ch 15 - Special Senses	Special Senses	Quiz, Assignment
15	Wrap Up & Project Presentations	Lab Practicum	Project, Lab Practical
16	Finals	--	Comprehensive Final Exam

Example: In Week 3, students will study the structure and function of cells, complete a quiz and assignment on cell anatomy, and participate in a lab exercise focused on cell division. This integrated approach reinforces theoretical knowledge with practical skills.

Additional info: This syllabus aligns with the standard curriculum for Anatomy & Physiology I and prepares students for advanced study in health sciences.