BIO 131: Anatomy and Physiology I – Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

Course Overview

Course Title: Anatomy and Physiology I (BIO 131) Credits: 4 Format: Fully online, asynchronous (no set meeting times) Instructor: Ricardo Lopez ([e-mail])

Course Description

This course employs a systems approach to the normal and pathological structure and function of the human body. Emphasis is placed on the cell, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and integumentary systems. Laboratory experiences, including dissection, supplement lecture material. The course is designed for students pursuing studies in health and biological sciences.

Prerequisites

• BIO 121 - General Biology I or BIO 151 - Principles of Biology I (minimum grade C within 5 years) or a passing score on the MCCC Biology Placement Test.

• High School Chemistry, CHE 121, CHE 131, or CHE 151 (minimum grade C within 5 years).

Student Learning Outcomes

• Describe and define the interrelationship of atomic structure to inorganic and organic molecular structures.

• Identify and describe the relationship between inorganic/organic molecules and human cells.

• Explain how cells form tissues, relate tissue structure to function, and identify tissue locations.

• Identify major tissue types, muscles, and bones of the human body.

• Describe and define basic principles at the organ and organ system level, focusing on the integumentary, muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems.

Required Textbooks and Materials

• Textbook: Human Anatomy and Physiology (Marieb & Hoehn, 11th Edition, Pearson)

• Lab Manual: Human Anatomy & Physiology Laboratory Manual, Main Version (Marieb and Smith, 12th Edition)

• Online Resources: Access to Mastering A&P (Pearson) is recommended but not mandatory.

Assessment and Grading

Assessment	Approximate % of Total Grade
Quizzes	10%
Lab Assignments	10%
5 Lecture Exams	45%
Lab Exam	15%
Department Final	20%

Institutional Grading Scale

Grade	Numerical Range	Quality Points	Definition
A	93-100	4.00	Surpasses Expectations
A-	90-92	3.67	Surpasses Expectations
B+	87-89	3.33	Above Expectations
B	83-86	3.00	Above Expectations
B-	80-82	2.67	Above Expectations
C+	77-79	2.33	Meets Expectations
C	70-76	2.00	Meets Expectations
D	60-69	1.00	Below Expectations
F	0-59	0.00	Academic Failure
XF	0.00	0.00	Academic Misconduct

Major Course Topics (Sequence of Topics)

• Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology: Levels of organization, metabolism, homeostasis, anatomical terminology, body planes, and cavities.

• General Chemistry & Biochemistry: Atomic structure, chemical bonds, reactions, water, acids/bases, macromolecules, enzymes, metabolic pathways.

• Cell Anatomy & Physiology: Microscopy, plasma membrane structure and function, transport mechanisms, organelles, cell cycle, gene expression, cancer overview.

• Histology: Germ layers, epithelial, connective, muscle, and nerve tissues, membranes, inflammation, and wound healing.

• Integumentary System: Structure and function of skin, hair, glands, pigmentation, burns, and skin cancer.

• Skeletal System: Bone structure, classification, development, growth, hormones, fractures, and skeletal anatomy (axial and appendicular).

• Joints: Classification, structure, movements, and common disorders.

• Muscular System: Types of muscle tissue, skeletal muscle structure, contraction physiology, muscle energetics, fatigue, and muscle identification.

• Nerve Tissue: Neuron and glia structure, nervous system divisions, membrane potentials, synaptic transmission, conduction, and neural circuits.

• Central Nervous System: Brain and spinal cord anatomy, protection, CSF, functional regions, tracts, and clinical significance.

• Peripheral Nervous System & Reflexes: Cranial and spinal nerves, plexuses, dermatomes, and reflex physiology.

• Autonomic Nervous System: Somatic vs. autonomic, sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, neurotransmitters, and physiological effects.

• General and Special Senses: Sensory receptors, somatic and special senses (eye, ear, olfaction, gustation).

Exam and Assignment Schedule (Tentative)

• Appendicular Skeleton Lab Assignment: 6/11/2026 (Week 2)

• Lecture Exam #1: 6/18/2026 (Week 3) – Chapters 1, 2, 3

• Lecture Exam #2: 6/25/2026 (Week 4) – Chapters 4, 5

• Axial Skeleton Lab Assignment: 7/5/2026 (Week 5)

• Lecture Exam #3: 7/9/2026 (Week 6) – Chapters 6, 8

• Muscle Lab Assignment: 7/16/2026 (Week 7)

• Sheep Lab Assignment: 7/23/2026 (Week 8)

• Lecture Exam #4: 7/30/2026 (Week 9) – Chapters 11, 12

• Laboratory Exam: 8/6/2026 (Week 10)

• Lecture Exam #5: 8/10/2026 (Week 11) – Chapters 9, 13, 14

• Final Comprehensive Exam: 8/13/2026 (Week 11)

Course Policies and Resources

• Attendance: Engagement in course-required activities is mandatory for financial aid eligibility.

• Academic Integrity: Zero tolerance for cheating or plagiarism. Use of AI must be cited.

• Makeup Policy: No makeup quizzes; limited makeup exams with documentation.

• Accessibility: Contact Disability Services for accommodations.

• Student Success Resources: Academic, physical, and mental health resources are available through the college.

• Technology: Students must have access to a computer with a camera for proctored assessments.

Contact and Communication

• Use Canvas Inbox or email for communication with the instructor.

• Follow netiquette guidelines for respectful and professional interactions.

Important Dates

• Semester Start: 6/1/2026

• Semester End: 8/13/2026

• Grades Due: 8/14/2026

• Juneteenth (no classes): 6/19/2026

• Independence Day (no classes): 7/2-7/4/2026

Course Logo

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, expectations, and content for Anatomy and Physiology I, aligning with standard college-level ANP curriculum and preparing students for advanced study in health sciences.