Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Information

• Course Title: Anatomy & Physiology I

• Course Number: BIO 168

• Semester: 2024 Fall

• Location: Indianola HS Main Bldg.

• Credits: 4

• Instructor: Martha Garrels

Course Description

This college-level course covers the structure and function of the human body at the chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, and organ system levels. It includes the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. The course emphasizes foundational knowledge for students pursuing health sciences and related fields.

Course Competencies

1. Basic Structures and Functions of the Human Body

Students will learn to identify and describe the major body cavities, organs, and organ systems, using appropriate anatomical terminology.

• Key Point: List and describe the 11 organ systems and their associated organs.

• Key Point: Explain the importance of homeostasis and methods for its regulation.

• Example: The cardiovascular system maintains blood pressure and delivers nutrients throughout the body.

2. Chemical Processes Underlying Physiological Functions

Understanding chemical reactions and molecular structures is essential for grasping physiological processes.

• Key Point: Use molecular and structural formulas to symbolize chemical composition.

• Key Point: Describe major types of chemical reactions, including anabolic and catabolic reactions.

• Key Point: Explain the role of ATP in cellular respiration and energy transfer.

• Formula: $\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6\text{O}_2 \rightarrow 6\text{CO}_2 + 6\text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{ATP}$

• Example: Hydrolysis of ATP provides energy for muscle contraction.

3. Cellular Components and Their Functions

Cells are the basic units of life, and their structures and functions are fundamental to understanding physiology.

• Key Point: Describe the structure and function of plasma membranes, organelles, and the nucleus.

• Key Point: Outline the stages of the cell cycle and mitosis.

• Key Point: Explain DNA replication and protein synthesis (transcription and translation).

• Formula: $\text{DNA} \xrightarrow{\text{transcription}} \text{mRNA} \xrightarrow{\text{translation}} \text{Protein}$

• Example: Ribosomes translate mRNA into polypeptide chains during protein synthesis.

4. Tissues of the Human Body

The body is composed of four basic tissue types: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.

• Key Point: Compare and contrast tissue types by structure, function, and location.

• Key Point: Describe connective tissue subtypes (e.g., bone, cartilage, blood).

• Key Point: Explain the role of neurons and glial cells in nervous tissue.

• Example: Epithelial tissue lines body cavities and surfaces, providing protection and absorption.

5. Integumentary System

The integumentary system includes the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands, serving as the body's external covering.

• Key Point: Describe the layers of the epidermis and dermis.

• Key Point: Explain how accessory structures contribute to homeostasis.

• Example: Sweat glands help regulate body temperature.

6. Skeletal System

The skeletal system provides structure, protection, and a framework for movement.

• Key Point: List and describe the major bones and bone markings.

• Key Point: Explain bone formation, repair, and remodeling.

• Key Point: Classify joints by structure and function.

• Example: The femur is the longest bone in the body and forms part of the hip and knee joints.

7. Muscular System

The muscular system enables movement through contraction of skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle fibers.

• Key Point: Describe the microscopic anatomy of skeletal muscle.

• Key Point: Explain the events of muscle contraction, including excitation-contraction coupling.

• Key Point: Identify major skeletal muscles and their functions.

• Example: The biceps brachii flexes the forearm at the elbow.

8. Nervous System

The nervous system regulates body functions through rapid electrical signaling and integration of sensory input.

• Key Point: Describe the organization and anatomy of the central and peripheral nervous systems.

• Key Point: Explain the structure and function of neurons and neuroglia.

• Key Point: Summarize the process of action potential generation and propagation.

• Formula: $\text{Resting Membrane Potential} = -70\,\text{mV}$

• Example: The spinal cord transmits sensory and motor signals between the body and brain.

9. Sensory and Special Senses

Special senses include vision, hearing, taste, smell, and equilibrium, each with unique anatomical structures and functions.

• Key Point: Classify sensory receptors by stimulus type and location.

• Key Point: Describe the anatomy of the eye and ear.

• Key Point: Explain the neural pathways for vision and hearing.

• Example: Rods and cones in the retina detect light and color for vision.

10. Laboratory Skills and Applications

Students will develop practical skills in anatomical identification and physiological experimentation.

• Key Point: Locate gross anatomical structures in mammalian organs.

• Key Point: Use laboratory methods to examine structure and function.

• Example: Dissecting a sheep heart to study cardiac anatomy.

Course Outcomes

• Outcome 1: Discipline Knowledge – Apply foundational anatomy and physiology knowledge.

• Outcome 2: Critical Thinking – Analyze and evaluate information to reach reasoned conclusions.

• Outcome 3: Communication Skills – Communicate clearly and effectively in academic contexts.

• Outcome 4: Problem-Solving – Identify, define, and analyze problems before applying solutions.

• Outcome 5: Collaboration – Work effectively in teams, demonstrating leadership and interpersonal skills.

Required Textbooks & Materials

• Textbook: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology, Gerard J. Tortora/Bryan Derrickson, 14th edition

• ISBN: 978-0-13-443369-1

• Required Materials: Notebook, textbook, colored pencils, calculator

Study Tips

• Review notes and assigned readings regularly.

• Ask questions promptly if material is unclear.

• Seek help from the instructor or tutoring resources as needed.

Grading and Policies

• Students must earn a grade of C or better to advance to the next course.

• Attendance, participation, and completion of assignments are required.

Instructor Contact

• Name: Martha Garrels

• Email: [e-mail]

• Phone: [phone] ext 2107

• Office Location: Room 307 Indianola High School

Additional info:

• This syllabus is based on DMACC college-level standards and is suitable for students preparing for health science careers.

• Laboratory and hands-on activities are integral to the course.