Anatomy & Physiology Lab Study Guide: Bones, Muscles, Cells, and Histology

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology: Lab Study Guide

This study guide summarizes key laboratory tasks and concepts for college-level Anatomy & Physiology, focusing on the skeletal system, muscular system, cellular structures, and histology. The guide is organized by main topics and subtopics, providing definitions, examples, and essential academic context for each area.

Bone Chart

Pre-Lab Tasks

• Reading Assignments: Review relevant textbook chapters and lecture notes to build foundational knowledge.

• Background Information: Study background text in the lab manual to understand terminology and concepts.

• Pre-Lab Assignments: Complete assigned pre-lab questions and activities to prepare for hands-on work.

• Chart Completion: Fill out anatomical charts using lecture notes and models.

Lab Tasks

• Locating and Describing Major Organs:

  • Identify each organ on a torso model or midsagittal head model.

  • Add the following organs to your chart: diaphragm, adrenal gland, hypothalamus, and salivary gland.

  • Name the organ system(s) to which each organ belongs (e.g., digestive, endocrine).

  • Describe the function of each organ.

• Using Anatomical Terminology:

  • Identify and describe the location of each organ using correct anatomical terms (e.g., superior, inferior, anterior, posterior).

• Identifying Bones of the Skeleton:

  • Recognize and name the major bones, including the carpals (wrist bones) and tarsals (ankle bones).

Post-Lab Tasks

• Complete all post-lab assignments for the unit.

• Master the identification of bones, especially the carpals and tarsals.

Gross Anatomy of the Muscular System

Pre-Lab Tasks

• Read the introduction and background text for the muscular system.

• Download or print the Skeletal Muscle Chart for reference.

• Complete pre-lab assignments and take notes on the features of the frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid bones.

Lab Tasks

• Muscle Chart: Study and master the first 10 skeletal muscles, learning their names, locations, and functions.

• Microscope Use:

  • Identify parts of the microscope and practice using it to view objects.

  • Determine field diameter and estimate the size of objects under the microscope.

  • Perceive depth of field and care for the microscope.

• Bone Features: Identify features of the frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid bones on a skull model.

Post-Lab Tasks

• Master the identification of skeletal muscles #1-10.

• Complete all post-lab assignments for the unit.