Anatomy and Physiology I: Course Overview and Study Guide

Course Introduction

Overview of Anatomy and Physiology I

This course is the first part of a two-semester sequence designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of the human body. It is intended for students in allied health programs and covers foundational topics in human anatomy and physiology, with a focus on tissues, the integumentary system, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system. Laboratory work, including dissection and microscopy, is an essential component.

• Course Code: BIOL-201 H20

• Credits: 3 lecture hours, 2 laboratory hours per week

• Prerequisites: Biological Principles I (BIOL 121) or equivalent, and college-level reading, writing, and math skills

• Textbook: Martini et al., Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology, 12th Edition

• Required Online Access: Mastering Anatomy & Physiology (Pearson)

Topics Covered in Anatomy and Physiology I

• Introduction: Terminology and Homeostasis

• Basic Histology: Study of tissues

• Integumentary System: Structure and function of skin and related structures

• Skeletal System: Bones and bone structure (including axial and appendicular skeletons)

• Muscular System: Muscle tissue and the muscular system

• Nervous System: Introduction to nervous tissue and basic neural organization

Note: Basic chemistry, cell biology, metabolism, and development/inheritance are not covered in this course. Students are expected to have prior knowledge of these topics.

Course Objectives and Outcomes

Learning Goals

• Use anatomical vocabulary accurately for professional communication.

• Identify and describe basic tissue types and predict their functions.

• List and describe the eleven organ systems, their organs, and basic functions.

• Apply biological principles to cell and membrane function, including membrane transport and energy processes.

• Relate structure to function in cells, tissues, and selected organs, especially in the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

• Understand homeostasis and the consequences of its imbalance.

• Interpret and present data from charts and graphs.

• Communicate clearly in both written and oral forms.

• Work safely and cooperatively in the laboratory setting.

• Develop effective study and metacognitive skills.

• Strengthen core competencies such as critical thinking, technology use, and quantitative skills.

Course Structure and Methods

Lecture

• Instructor's notes, PowerPoint slides, and audio/visual aids

• In-class activities: discussions, practice questions, demonstrations

• Required reading from the textbook

Laboratory

• Hands-on study of anatomical structures using models, bones, dissections, and histological slides

• Development of observational and microscopy skills

• Lab safety protocols must be followed at all times

Online Materials

• Access to course materials, grades, and assignments via Canvas

• Online quizzes and assignments using Mastering Anatomy & Physiology

Evaluation and Grading

Assessment Components

Component	Percentage of Grade	Notes
Lecture Exams	40%	Lowest score replaced by final exam percentage if higher
Laboratory Exams/Practicals	20%
Laboratory Post-Labs	10%	Lowest score dropped
Weekly Quizzes	30%	Lowest score dropped

Final Exam: Comprehensive, covers all course material. No make-ups allowed.

Grading Scale

Points	Percentage	Grade
925-1000	100-93	A
900-924	92-90	A-
875-899	89-88	B+
825-874	87-83	B
800-824	82-80	B-
775-799	79-78	C+
725-774	77-73	C
700-724	72-70	C-
675-699	69-68	D+
600-674	67-60	D
0-599	≤59	F

Policies and Expectations

• Attendance: Mandatory for all lectures and labs. No make-up labs or exams except in extraordinary, documented circumstances.

• Academic Honesty: All work must be original. Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

• Respect and Civility: Students are expected to maintain a respectful and inclusive learning environment.

• Lab Safety: Follow all safety protocols. Report accidents immediately. Children are not allowed in the lab.

• Disability Accommodations: Students requiring accommodations should contact the Disability Counselor as early as possible.

Tips for Success in Anatomy and Physiology I

• Attend all lectures and labs regularly.

• Stay organized with a dedicated notebook and folder for course materials.

• Read lab handouts and complete pre-lab questions before each lab session.

• Complete assigned textbook readings before lectures.

• Find a study partner and participate in class discussions.

• Spend at least 6 hours per week studying outside of class.

• Ask questions and seek help from the instructor as needed.

• Review material regularly rather than cramming before exams.

Summary Table: Major Organ Systems (Preview)

Organ System	Main Organs	Primary Functions
Integumentary	Skin, hair, nails	Protection, temperature regulation, sensation
Skeletal	Bones, cartilage, ligaments	Support, movement, protection, blood cell production
Muscular	Skeletal muscles	Movement, posture, heat production
Nervous	Brain, spinal cord, nerves	Coordination, communication, response to stimuli

Additional info: Students are expected to be familiar with all eleven organ systems by the end of the course.

Conclusion

This course provides a rigorous foundation in human anatomy and physiology, emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills. Mastery of the material will prepare students for advanced study in health-related fields and support their success in professional settings.