BIO 121 – Anatomy & Physiology I: Syllabus and Course Overview Study Notes

Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology I

This course provides a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the integration and regulation of physiological processes. Emphasis is placed on the structural and functional interrelationships within the human body, covering topics from basic chemistry to the nervous system. Laboratory work complements lectures through hands-on specimen examination and problem-solving exercises.

• Course Code: BIO 121

• Department: Biology

• Required Textbook: Human Anatomy & Physiology, 11th edition, Marieb & Hoehn (Pearson, 2019)

• Laboratory Manual: Human Anatomy & Physiology Laboratory Manual Fetal Pig Version, 13th edition, Marieb & Smith (Pearson, 2019)

• Interactive Platform: Mastering A&P (Pearson)

Course Goals and Learning Objectives

General Education Goal

Students will use the scientific method of inquiry to acquire scientific knowledge, particularly in the context of human anatomy and physiology.

Major Course Goals

• Explain fundamental concepts and theories in biochemistry, cell biology, and histology.

• Apply the scientific method using the light microscope in both practice and theory.

• Understand the complementarity of structure and function in the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

• Explain the concept of homeostasis and its role in wellness and illness across major body systems.

Measurable Performance Objectives

• Biochemistry, Cell Biology, and Histology:

  • Explain atoms, molecules, and chemical bonding.

  • Differentiate between organic and inorganic compounds.

  • Describe cell membrane structure and function.

  • Identify major intracellular components and their functions.

  • Name and describe the four basic tissue types.

• Microscopy and Scientific Method:

  • Use the light microscope for measurements.

  • Explain resolution and magnification.

  • Calculate linear magnification of biological drawings.

  • Interpret cell and tissue images, tables, and graphs.

• Structure and Function:

  • Explain structures and functions of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

• Homeostasis:

  • Define negative and positive feedback mechanisms.

  • Describe how homeostasis relates to wellness and illness in major body systems.

Course Structure and Assessment

Instructional Methods

• In-class lectures and laboratory sessions

• Class discussions

• Online assignments via Mastering A&P

• Pre-recorded lectures

Grading Breakdown

Component	Weight
Unit Tests (5-6)	50%
Homework (Mastering A&P)	15%
Lab Assignments	10%
Final Exam (Comprehensive)	20%
Participation	5%

Grading Scale:

Grade	Score Range
A	90 – 100
B+	87 – 89
B	80 – 86
C+	77 – 79
C	70 – 76
D	60 – 69
F	Below 60

Course Topics and Weekly Schedule

Weekly Breakdown

Week	Topics / Chapters
1	Lab Introduction, Syllabus Review, Class Success Tips Chapter 1: Terminology; Homeostasis Chapter 2 Pt 1: Inorganic Chemistry
2	Chapter 2 Pt 2: Organic Chemistry Exam 1 (Chapters 1 & 2) Chapter 3 Pt 1: Cell Biology
3	Memorial Day – No Class Chapter 3 Pt 2: Cell Biology Chapter 4: Tissues
4	Exam 2 (Chapters 3 & 4) Chapter 5: Integumentary System Chapter 6: Bone Tissues
5	Exam 3 (Chapters 5 & 6) Chapter 7 Pt 1: Axial Skeleton Chapter 7 Pt 2: Appendicular Skeleton Chapter 8: Joints
6	Exam 4 (Chapters 7 & 8) Chapter 9: Muscles and Muscle Tissue Chapter 10: Muscular System Chapter 11: Fundamentals of the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue
7	Exam 5 (Chapters 9 & 10) Chapter 12: Central Nervous System Chapter 13: Peripheral Nervous System and Reflex Activity Final Exam: All Chapters

Key Concepts and Definitions

Homeostasis

Homeostasis is the maintenance of a stable internal environment within the body. It is essential for normal physiological function and survival. The body uses feedback mechanisms to regulate variables such as temperature, pH, and electrolyte balance.

• Negative Feedback: A process that reduces or reverses a change to maintain equilibrium (e.g., body temperature regulation).

• Positive Feedback: A process that amplifies a change (e.g., blood clotting, labor contractions).

Complementarity of Structure and Function

This principle states that the function of a body part depends on its structure. For example, bones are strong and rigid to support and protect organs, while muscle tissue is contractile to enable movement.

Scientific Method in Anatomy & Physiology

• Observation and hypothesis formation

• Experimentation (e.g., using microscopes to study cells and tissues)

• Data analysis and interpretation (including tables and graphs)

Basic Chemistry for A&P

• Atoms and Molecules: Atoms are the smallest units of matter; molecules are combinations of atoms.

• Chemical Bonds: Atoms form bonds (ionic, covalent, hydrogen) during chemical reactions.

• Organic vs. Inorganic Compounds: Organic compounds contain carbon and hydrogen (e.g., carbohydrates, proteins), while inorganic compounds do not (e.g., water, salts).

Cell Biology

• Cell Membrane: A selectively permeable barrier that controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.

• Major Organelles: Nucleus (genetic control), mitochondria (energy production), endoplasmic reticulum (protein/lipid synthesis), Golgi apparatus (modification and packaging), lysosomes (digestion).

Histology: The Study of Tissues

• Four Basic Tissue Types:

  • Epithelial Tissue: Covers surfaces and lines cavities.

  • Connective Tissue: Supports, binds, and protects organs.

  • Muscle Tissue: Responsible for movement.

  • Nervous Tissue: Conducts electrical impulses for communication.

Academic Integrity and Student Expectations

• Plagiarism, cheating, interference, and fraud are strictly prohibited.

• Violations may result in sanctions, including failure of assignments or the course, probation, suspension, or expulsion.

• Students are expected to attend class, participate, complete assignments on time, and respect classmates and instructors.

Support and Accommodations

• Students with documented disabilities may request reasonable accommodations through the Office of Student Development and Counseling.

• Contact information: Room 4122-I (main campus), 973-877-3071, [e-mail]

Summary Table: Major Body Systems Covered

System	Main Functions	Key Structures
Integumentary	Protection, temperature regulation, sensation	Skin, hair, nails, glands
Skeletal	Support, protection, movement, mineral storage	Bones, cartilage, ligaments
Muscular	Movement, posture, heat production	Skeletal muscles, tendons
Nervous	Control, coordination, communication	Brain, spinal cord, nerves

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to use additional A&P texts for further study.

• All exams (except the Bone Practical) are proctored using Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor.

• Late assignments incur a penalty of 3% per day.

• Attendance and participation are critical for success in this course.