Anatomy & Physiology I – Course Overview and Study Guide

Course Introduction

Overview of Anatomy & Physiology I

This course provides a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body. It covers basic chemistry, cellular organization, tissues, major organ systems, and the scientific methods used in life sciences.

• Course Format: Hybrid (combines online lectures and in-person laboratory sessions)

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

• Assessment: Exams, lab reports, writing assignments, and collaborative laboratory investigations

Course Objectives

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Interpret scientific observations and communicate findings.

• Comprehend and synthesize information from texts, lectures, and laboratory experiences.

• Apply scientific methods including hypothesis development, experimentation, and data analysis.

• Acquire laboratory skills such as microscopy, dissection, and scientific reporting.

• Demonstrate knowledge of body chemistry, fluids, cell structure, and major organ systems.

Pathways Learning Outcomes & Assessments

Key Competencies

• Fundamental Concepts: Apply core principles and methods of life and physical sciences.

• Scientific Method: Use hypothesis-driven inquiry, experimentation, and data analysis.

• Collaborative Investigation: Work in teams to conduct laboratory experiments.

• Data Analysis: Gather, analyze, and interpret scientific data effectively.

• Research Ethics: Understand and apply ethical standards in scientific research and reporting.

Assessment Methods

• Lecture and lab exams

• Weekly homework and writing assignments

• Lab reports and practicals

• Collaborative laboratory investigations

• Oral and written presentations

Lecture & Laboratory Schedule

Main Topics Covered

• Orientation & Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

• Cellular Level of Organization (including osmosis and diffusion)

• Tissue Level of Organization (epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous tissues)

• Integumentary System

• Bone Structure & Skeletal System

• Muscular System

• Blood, Blood Vessels, and Circulation

• Cardiovascular System (heart and function)

• Lymphatic System & Immunity

Sample Lecture Schedule Table

Week	Lecture Topic	Text Chapter	Date
1	Orientation	2	08/28/25
2	An Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology	2-49	09/02/25
3	Cellular Level of Organization	3.1-3.4	09/09/25
4	Tissue Level of Organization	4	09/16/25
5	The Integumentary System	5	09/23/25
6	Bone Structure & Skeletal System	6	10/02/25
7	Muscular System	10	10/16/25
8	Blood	17	11/13/25
9	Cardiovascular System: Heart	18	11/25/25
10	Lymphatic System & Immunity	20	12/11/25

Key Scientific Concepts

Definitions and Examples

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

• Physiology: The study of the function of body parts and how they work to sustain life.

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

• Cell: The basic structural and functional unit of living organisms.

• Tissue: A group of similar cells that perform a specific function.

• Organ System: A group of organs that work together to perform complex body functions (e.g., muscular, skeletal, cardiovascular systems).

Example: Homeostasis Equation

Homeostasis can be represented as:

$\text{Homeostasis} = \text{Dynamic Equilibrium of Internal Conditions}$

Scientific Method in Anatomy & Physiology

Steps of the Scientific Method

1. Observation: Gathering information about the body and its functions.

2. Hypothesis: Formulating a testable explanation for observations.

3. Experimentation: Conducting tests and collecting data.

4. Analysis: Interpreting data to draw conclusions.

5. Presentation: Communicating findings through reports and presentations.

Academic Integrity

Policies and Examples

Academic integrity is essential in scientific study. Students must avoid plagiarism, cheating, and falsification of records. Examples include:

• Plagiarism: Presenting another person's work or ideas as your own.

• Cheating: Using unauthorized materials or assistance during exams.

• Falsification: Forging signatures or altering official documents.

Textbook and Technology Requirements

Required Materials

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

• Online Platform: Brightspace (for assignments, grades, and communication)

• Lab Manual: Required for laboratory sessions

Summary Table: Pathways Learning Outcomes & Assessments

Learning Outcome	Assessment Method
Apply fundamental concepts and methods	Lecture and lab exams, homework, writing assignments
Use scientific method	Specific exam questions, writing assignments, lab reports
Collaborative laboratory investigations	Weekly collaborative lab investigations, lab reports, lab practicals
Gather, analyze, and interpret data	Lab reports, follow-up questions, exams
Research ethics and reporting	Lab reports, writing assignments, presentations

Additional info: These notes summarize the course syllabus, schedule, objectives, and foundational concepts for Anatomy & Physiology I, providing a structured guide for exam preparation and laboratory work.