BIO 137 Human Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab – Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

BIO 137 Human Anatomy & Physiology I with Lab is an introductory college-level course designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of the structure and function of the human body. The course integrates lecture and laboratory experiences, focusing on the interrelationship of anatomical structures and physiological processes across major body systems.

Course Description

• The course covers basic chemistry, cell structure and physiology, metabolism, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

• Lecture: 3 credits; Laboratory: 1 credit.

• Prerequisites: Placement above developmental levels in reading, English, and math, or instructor consent.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Explain basic principles of inorganic and organic chemistry as they apply to physiological processes.

• Describe basic cell structure and physiology.

• Describe the structure and function of major tissue types.

• Recognize the complementarity of structure and function.

• Describe basic metabolic processes of organ systems.

• Explain the interrelationships between organ systems and physiological processes.

• Explain the major homeostatic mechanisms utilized in each body system in response to internal and external environmental changes.

• Explain physiological and anatomical mechanisms of common dysfunctions.

Course Structure and Topics

Lecture Modules and Chapters

The course is divided into five modules, each covering specific chapters and topics from the textbook:

• Module 1: Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology, Chemistry of Life (Chapters 1 & 2)

• Module 2: Cells and Tissues (Chapters 3, 4, & 24)

• Module 3: Integumentary and Skeletal Systems (Chapters 5 & 6)

• Module 4: Muscular and Nervous Systems (Chapters 9 & 11)

• Module 5: Central, Peripheral, and Autonomic Nervous Systems, Special Senses (Chapters 11.1, 12–15)

Laboratory Topics

• Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology; Metric System; Organ Systems

• Chemistry and Transport Mechanisms

• Microscopy and Cell Anatomy

• Histology of Epithelial and Connective Tissue

• Skeletal System: Axial and Appendicular Skeleton, Articulations

• Excitable Tissue Physiology

• Anatomy and Movements of the Muscular System

• Anatomy of the Nervous System

• Reflexes and Sensory Organs

Assessment and Grading

Lecture Component (75% of final grade)

• Homework Assignments: 10 assignments at 15 points each (150 points)

• Lecture Exams: 5 exams at 50 points each (250 points)

• Lecture Quizzes: 6 quizzes at 25 points each (150 points)

• Cumulative Final Exam: 200 points

Lab Component (25% of final grade)

• Lab Exercises: 10 exercises at 7 points each (70 points)

• Lab Quizzes: 5 quizzes at 6 points each (30 points)

• Lab Practical Exams: 5 practicals at 30 points each (150 points)

Grading Scale

Percentage	Letter Grade	Points
89.5% – 100%	A	895–1000
79.5% – 89.4%	B	795–894
69.5% – 79.4%	C	695–794
59.5% – 69.4%	D	595–694
0% – 59.4%	E	0–594

Course Policies and Expectations

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is mandatory for both lecture and lab sessions.

• Students must notify the instructor in advance for planned absences or within 24 hours for unexpected absences.

• Missing 20% or more of labs (excused or unexcused) results in a failing grade.

Academic Integrity

• All work must be original and completed individually unless otherwise specified.

• Cheating or plagiarism results in an automatic failing grade for the course.

• No resources (phones, smartwatches, notes, etc.) are allowed during quizzes or exams.

Accommodations

• Students requiring accommodations must contact Student Accessibility Services (SAS).

Required Materials

• Textbook: Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th edition, Marieb (Pearson Education, 2024; eText included in course fee)

• Lab Manual: Available on Blackboard

• Technology: Reliable internet and computer/laptop access required

Course Schedule (Sample Weeks)

Week	Lecture Topics	Chapters	Assignments/Exams
1	Intro to A&P Organizational levels; Body Systems	1, 2	Homework Ch. 1
2	Chemistry, Energy, Matter, Atoms, Molecules	1, 2	Quiz Ch. 1; Homework Ch. 2
3	Complete Chemistry; Exam Module 1	1, 2	Exam Module 1
4	Cell Anatomy, Membrane Transport	3, 4, 24	Homework Ch. 3
5	Cell Cycle; Histology Basics	3, 4, 24	Homework Ch. 4; Quiz Ch. 3
6	Finish Module 2 Topics	3, 4, 24	Exam Module 2
7	Integumentary System; Epidermis & Dermis	5, 6	Homework Ch. 5
8	Skin Homeostasis; Skeletal System	5, 6	Homework Ch. 6; Quiz Ch. 5
9	Finish Skeletal System; Exam Module 3	5, 6	Exam Module 3

Additional info: The full schedule includes all modules, labs, holidays, and exam dates as outlined in the syllabus.

Essential Skills and Student Support

• The course supports the Kentucky Graduate Profile and Essential Skills, including communication, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and professionalism.

• Student resources include academic support, technology assistance, and accessibility services.

Contact Information

• Instructor: Andrew W. Sisson, M.S. ([e-mail])

• Division Contacts: Dr. Melissa S. Davis, Dr. Shelley Larrabee, Ashley Young, Dr. Marilyn Akins