Anatomy & Physiology II Syllabus and Study Guide

Anatomy & Physiology II: Course Overview

Course Vision and Modality

This course at Houston Community College aims to deliver high-quality education in Anatomy & Physiology, focusing on student success and community impact. The course is offered Online on a Schedule (WS), allowing students to attend virtual classes at set times, providing flexibility and increased interaction without requiring campus attendance.

• Online on a Schedule (WS): Students log in at scheduled times for live instruction and interaction.

• Requirements: Reliable computer and internet access are necessary.

Course Description

Anatomy and Physiology II is the second part of a two-course sequence. It studies the structure and function of the human body, emphasizing the following systems:

• Endocrine

• Cardiovascular

• Lymphatic

• Respiratory

• Digestive

• Urinary

• Reproductive (including human development and genetics)

Emphasis is placed on interrelationships among systems and regulation of physiological functions involved in maintaining homeostasis.

Course Learning Outcomes

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

PSLOs for the Biology Discipline can be found at the department website. These outcomes focus on scientific literacy, communication, quantitative reasoning, and social responsibility.

Course Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs)

Upon completion, students should be able to:

1. Use anatomical terminology to identify and describe locations of major organs of each system covered.

2. Explain interrelationships among molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ functions in each system.

3. Describe the interdependency and interactions of the systems.

4. Explain contributions of organs and systems to the maintenance of homeostasis.

5. Identify causes and effects of homeostatic imbalances.

6. Describe modern technology and tools used to study anatomy and physiology.

Learning Objectives

• Demonstrate part to function relationships and the interaction of the circulatory, lymphatic, and immune systems.

• Understand and apply hormonal control on homeostasis.

• Demonstrate part to function relationships and the interaction of the respiratory system with the cardiovascular system.

• Demonstrate part to function relationships involving the digestive system and its correlation with metabolism.

• Demonstrate interactions of parts to functions within the reproductive system.

• Demonstrate skills using body system models and laboratory techniques.

Instructor and Student Responsibilities

Instructor Responsibilities

• Provide grading scale and detailed grading formula.

• Facilitate an effective learning environment.

• Inform students of policies (attendance, withdrawal, tardiness, make-up assignments).

• Provide course outline and class calendar.

• Arrange meetings with individual students as needed.

Student Responsibilities

• Attend class in person and/or online.

• Participate actively and communicate promptly.

• Read and comprehend the textbook.

• Complete required assignments and exams.

• Ask for help when needed.

• Keep copies of all paperwork (syllabus, handouts, assignments).

• Comply with academic honesty policies.

Student Success Information

Academic standards require a minimum of 3 study hours for every contact hour. For a class meeting 3 hours per week, students should study at least 9 hours weekly outside of class. Success in this course depends on:

• Reading the textbook

• Active participation

• Timely completion of assignments

• Seeking help when needed

Key Terms and Concepts

Definitions

• 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 carry out life-sustaining activities.

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

• Organ System: A group of organs that work together to perform a specific function.

Example: Homeostasis in the Human Body

Homeostasis is maintained by feedback mechanisms. For example, the regulation of blood glucose involves the endocrine system (pancreas releasing insulin and glucagon) and the digestive system (absorption of glucose).

Formula: Homeostatic Feedback Loop

The general structure of a feedback loop can be represented as:

$\text{Stimulus} \rightarrow \text{Receptor} \rightarrow \text{Control Center} \rightarrow \text{Effector} \rightarrow \text{Response}$

Course Policies and Resources

• Attendance is required and tracked.

• Academic integrity is strictly enforced.

• Resources available include tutoring, libraries, and supplementary instruction.

• Lab safety guidelines must be followed for all laboratory activities.

Lab Safety Clothing Requirements

• Closed-toe shoes

• Long pants

• Eye protection (safety goggles)

• Disposable gloves when handling chemicals or biological specimens

• Loose or baggy clothing is prohibited

HTML Table: Major Organ Systems Covered

Organ System	Main Functions	Key Organs
Endocrine	Regulation of body processes via hormones	Pituitary, thyroid, pancreas
Cardiovascular	Transport of nutrients, gases, wastes	Heart, blood vessels
Lymphatic/Immune	Defense against pathogens, fluid balance	Lymph nodes, spleen, thymus
Respiratory	Gas exchange (O2 and CO2)	Lungs, trachea
Digestive	Breakdown and absorption of nutrients	Stomach, intestines, liver
Urinary	Removal of wastes, water balance	Kidneys, bladder
Reproductive	Production of offspring, genetic inheritance	Ovaries, testes, uterus

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to use the department website for further resources and updates.

• Modern technology and laboratory techniques are integrated into the curriculum.