Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Overview, Learning Outcomes, and Assessment Structure

Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Structure and Expectations

Course Introduction

This course provides a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the chemistry of life, body fluids, and the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organ systems. Students will learn to identify, describe, and analyze the structure and function of the muscular and circulatory systems, among others.

Course Description

Overview

• Body Chemistry: Study of the chemical basis of life and body fluids.

• Cell Structure and Function: Identification and description of cell structure and function.

• Tissues and Organ Systems: Analysis of the structure and function of tissues, major bones, and the muscular and circulatory systems.

Discipline-Specific Learning Outcomes

Key Competencies

• Critical Thinking: Interpret scientific observations and draw evidence-based conclusions.

• Communication: Present and discuss scientific concepts, data, and results.

• Scientific Method: Apply hypothesis development, experimentation, and data analysis.

• Collaboration: Work effectively in laboratory teams.

• Ethics: Demonstrate research ethics in scientific data gathering and reporting.

Pathways Learning Outcomes and Assessment

Life & Physical Sciences

Pathways Learning Outcomes	Assessments
1. Identify and apply the fundamental concepts and methods of a life or physical science.	Assessment via lecture and lab exams, weekly homework, writing assignments, and lab reports.
2. Apply the scientific method to explore natural phenomena, including hypothesis development, observation, experimentation, measurement, data analysis, and data presentation.	Assessment via specific exam questions, writing assignments, and structured lab reports.
3. Use the tools of a scientific discipline to carry out collaborative laboratory investigations.	Assessment of collaborative lab investigations and lab reports.
4. Gather, analyze, and interpret data and present it in an effective written laboratory or field work report.	Assessment via submitted lab reports and follow-up questions in class and on exams.
5. Identify and apply research ethics and unbiased assessment in gathering and reporting scientific data.	Assessment via research ethics questions and writing assignments based on live or video presentations.

Course Assessment Structure

Lecture and Laboratory Components

• Lecture (75%):

  • Exams (56%): Two tests and a final exam, covering Introduction & Chemistry, Cell, Tissues, Skin, Skeleton & Joints, Muscle, and Circulatory System.

  • Quizzes (10%): Regular quizzes on lecture material.

  • Participation (10%): In-class activity, discussion board, etc.

• Laboratory (25%):

  • Lab Exams (10%): Up to six lab exams, covering cell, tissues, skin, skeleton, muscles, and additional topics.

  • Lab Reports/Mastering A&P/Homework (15%): Includes digital microscope slides, organ specimens, models, and written assignments.

Grading Scale

Grade	%	GPA Value
A	93-100%	4.0
A-	90-92%	3.7
B+	87-89%	3.3
B	83-86%	3.0
B-	80-82%	2.7
C+	77-79%	2.3
C	70-76%	2.0
D	60-69%	1.0
F	Below 60%	0.0

Course Policies and Expectations

Attendance

• Regular attendance is required for both lecture and laboratory sessions.

• Absences must be excused via documentation from the laboratory director and professor.

• No passing grade will be given for excessive unexcused absences.

Academic Integrity

• All submitted work must be original and properly cited.

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

Digital Etiquette

• Use respectful communication in online environments.

• Do not post private matters or inappropriate content on discussion forums.

• Maintain academic professionalism in all online interactions.

Required Materials

Textbooks and Resources

• Visual Anatomy & Physiology (Martini et al., 3rd edition)

• Modified Mastering A&P (Pearson Publishing)

• Supplementary study guide: by Krushnabrut & Alana, 2010

Additional Information

• Office hours are available by appointment.

• Course announcements and assignments are posted on Brightspace.

• Accessibility accommodations are available through the college’s ARC.

Summary Table: Major Course Components

Component	Description	Weight
Lecture Exams	Tests on major topics (Chemistry, Cells, Tissues, Skin, Skeleton, Muscle, Circulatory System)	56%
Quizzes	Regular quizzes on lecture material	10%
Participation	In-class activities, discussion boards	10%
Lab Exams	Practical exams on cell, tissues, skin, skeleton, muscle, and additional topics	10%
Lab Reports/Homework	Written assignments, digital slides, organ specimens, models	15%

Key Terms and Concepts

• Anatomy: The study of the structure of living organisms.

• Physiology: The study of the function of living organisms and their parts.

• Cell: The basic structural and functional unit of life.

• 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.

• Scientific Method: A systematic approach to research involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis.

Example: Application of the Scientific Method in Anatomy & Physiology

• Observation: Noticing changes in heart rate during exercise.

• Hypothesis: Exercise increases heart rate to supply more oxygen to muscles.

• Experimentation: Measuring heart rate before, during, and after exercise.

• Analysis: Comparing data to determine the effect of exercise on heart rate.

• Conclusion: Exercise causes a significant increase in heart rate.

Formula Example: Calculation of Heart Rate

Heart rate can be calculated using the following formula:

$\text{Heart Rate (bpm)} = \frac{\text{Number of Beats}}{\text{Time (minutes)}}$

Additional info: These notes summarize the course syllabus, learning outcomes, assessment structure, and key expectations for Anatomy & Physiology I. For detailed content on body systems, refer to the assigned textbook chapters.