Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Overview and Laboratory Study Guide

Course Introduction

This study guide provides an overview of the key topics, learning outcomes, and laboratory skills for a college-level Anatomy & Physiology I course. The course focuses on the structure and function of the human body at the tissue, organ, and system levels, with an emphasis on laboratory investigation and critical thinking.

Course Description and Structure

• Course Focus: Organization of the human body, tissues, organs, and systems.

• Laboratory Component: Emphasizes microscopic and gross anatomical study, use of anatomical models, and dissection.

• Prerequisites: ENG 101 or equivalent.

Course Student Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Recognize the relationships among body systems.

• Describe the structure, function, and homeostatic regulation of the human body.

• Apply the concept of complementarity in anatomy and physiology.

• Explain the interdependence of structure and function, and the interrelationships of body systems.

• Manipulate laboratory equipment and use current technology.

• Demonstrate competency in laboratory safety, including the handling of specimens.

Laboratory Skills and Competencies

General Laboratory Skills

• Microscope Use: Identify and describe tissues and cells using a microscope.

• Dissection: Perform dissections of animal specimens to study anatomical structures.

• Model Identification: Use anatomical models to identify organs, bones, and systems.

• Lab Safety: Follow all safety protocols, including proper handling of specimens and equipment.

Specific Laboratory Objectives

• Describe anatomical position and terminology.

• Use anatomical terms to describe directions, regions, surfaces, planes, and sections of the body.

• Identify organ systems and describe their functions.

• Name the regions, quadrants, and organs of the abdominopelvic cavity.

• Identify types of epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue under the microscope.

• Distinguish between male and female pelvises and skulls.

• Identify bones, bone markings, and major joints of the axial and appendicular skeleton.

• Describe the structure and function of skeletal muscle, including muscle origin, insertion, and action.

• Identify major nerves and describe their functions.

• Perform cranial nerve tests and describe nerve function.

Key Terms and Definitions

• Anatomical Position: The standard reference position for the body in the study of anatomy.

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment.

• Complementarity: The principle that structure and function are interrelated.

• Microscopy: The use of microscopes to view small structures not visible to the naked eye.

• Dissection: The process of carefully cutting apart organisms to study their internal parts.

Sample Table: Comparison of Tissue Types

Tissue Type	Main Function	Location Example
Epithelial	Protection, secretion, absorption	Skin, lining of GI tract
Connective	Support, binding, transport	Bone, blood, cartilage
Muscle	Movement	Skeletal muscles, heart
Nervous	Communication, control	Brain, spinal cord, nerves

Important Laboratory Safety Rules

• No eating or drinking in the laboratory.

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and goggles.

• Handle all specimens and equipment with care.

• Report any accidents or injuries to the instructor immediately.

Assessment and Grading

• Quizzes: 10% of final grade.

• Final Lab Exam: 14% of final grade.

• Homework (Printed package and Laboratory manual): 6% of final grade.

• Attendance: Mandatory; missing more than 2 labs may result in course failure.

• Lab Manual Work: Worth 65% of your course work; must be completed and submitted on time.

Academic Integrity

• Plagiarism: Presenting someone else's ideas or words as your own is strictly prohibited.

• Consequences: May include academic penalties, failure of assignments, or disciplinary action.

Support Resources

• Tutoring: Academic Area Tutoring Center and General Academic Areas (GAA) Tutoring Center available for extra help.

• Writing Center: Assistance with lab reports and scientific writing.

• Online Resources: Blackboard, course website, and online tutoring platforms.

• Accessibility Services: Accommodations available for students with disabilities.

Example: Anatomical Planes

• Sagittal Plane: Divides the body into left and right portions.

• Frontal (Coronal) Plane: Divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) portions.

• Transverse Plane: Divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) portions.

Formulas and Equations

• Body Mass Index (BMI):

$BMI = \frac{\text{weight (kg)}}{\text{height (m)}^2}$

• Surface Area of a Cylinder (used in organ modeling):

$A = 2\pi r h + 2\pi r^2$

Summary

This guide summarizes the foundational knowledge and laboratory skills required for success in Anatomy & Physiology I. Mastery of anatomical terminology, tissue identification, organ system structure and function, and laboratory safety are essential for further study in health and biological sciences.