Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Structure and Key Topics Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction

This study guide outlines the major topics and subtopics covered in a typical college-level Anatomy & Physiology I course, based on the provided assignment schedule. The guide is organized to help students understand the sequence and scope of the course, including laboratory and lecture components.

Major Topics in Anatomy & Physiology I

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

• Definition: Anatomy is the study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another; Physiology is the study of the function of the body and its parts.

• Levels of Organization: Chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, organism.

• Homeostasis: The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

• Example: Regulation of body temperature.

2. Chemistry of Life

• Basic Chemistry: Atoms, molecules, chemical bonds.

• Biomolecules: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids.

• pH and Buffers: Importance in physiological processes.

• Equation Example: $\text{pH} = -\log_{10}[\text{H}^+]$

3. The Cell

• Cell Structure: Plasma membrane, cytoplasm, organelles (nucleus, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, etc.).

• Cell Function: Transport mechanisms (diffusion, osmosis, active transport).

• Cell Division: Mitosis and its phases.

• Equation Example: $\text{Surface Area to Volume Ratio} = \frac{\text{Surface Area}}{\text{Volume}}$

4. Tissues

• Four Basic Types: Epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous.

• Functions and Locations: Each tissue type has specific roles and locations in the body.

• Example: Epithelial tissue lines body surfaces and cavities.

5. The Integumentary System

• Components: Skin, hair, nails, glands.

• Functions: Protection, temperature regulation, sensation.

• Layers of Skin: Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis.

6. The Skeletal System

• Bone Structure: Compact and spongy bone, bone cells (osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts).

• Functions: Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell formation.

• Classification: Long, short, flat, irregular bones.

• Example Table:

Bone Type	Example
Long	Femur
Short	Carpals
Flat	Sternum
Irregular	Vertebrae

7. Articulations (Joints)

• Types of Joints: Fibrous, cartilaginous, synovial.

• Movements: Flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation.

• Example: The knee is a synovial joint allowing flexion and extension.

8. Muscle Tissue and the Muscular System

• Types of Muscle Tissue: Skeletal, cardiac, smooth.

• Functions: Movement, posture, heat production.

• Muscle Contraction: Sliding filament theory.

• Equation Example: $\text{Force} = \text{Mass} \times \text{Acceleration}$

9. The Nervous System

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves outside the CNS.

• Functions: Sensory input, integration, motor output.

• Special Senses: Vision, hearing, taste, smell, equilibrium.

Laboratory Units

Lab Topics Overview

• Microscopy: Use and care of microscopes.

• Histology: Identification of tissue types under the microscope.

• Bone and Muscle Identification: Recognizing major bones and muscles in the human body.

• Physiological Experiments: Measuring muscle contraction, nerve impulses, etc.

Assessment Structure

• Quizzes: Regular quizzes on chapters and lab units.

• Lecture Exams: Covering multiple chapters at a time.

• Lab Exams: Practical identification and application of anatomical structures and physiological concepts.

• Projects: Example: Global Health Project.

Course Timeline

• Weeks 1-2: Introduction, Chemistry, Cell Structure

• Weeks 3-4: Tissues, Integumentary System

• Weeks 5-6: Skeletal System, Articulations

• Weeks 7-8: Muscular System, Muscle Physiology

• Weeks 9-10: Nervous System, Special Senses

Additional info: The schedule and assignments suggest a standard Anatomy & Physiology I curriculum, focusing on foundational human biology topics, laboratory skills, and assessment methods. Students should use this guide to organize their study and review key concepts for exams and lab practicals.