BIO 223: Anatomy & Physiology I - Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology I

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body. It is designed for students pursuing careers in Allied Health, Nursing, Physical Education, and related fields. The course emphasizes normal anatomy and physiology, pathological situations, and the integration of body systems.

• Course Number: BIO 223

• Semester: Fall 2025

• Location: NLV Campus, N216

• Instructor: Dr. Guillaume BESSON, PhD

• Lecture Hours: Th 4:30-5:50pm

Course Materials

Required Textbooks and Resources

• Textbook: AMERMAN Human Anatomy and Physiology, by Amerman, 3rd edition (ISBN: 9780134580999)

• Lab Manual: Lab Manual for BIO223 and 224 (ISBN: 9780134563446)

• Online Resources: CANVAS, McConnect, Youtube, Interactive Physiology

• Required Materials: Binder, colored pencils, internet access, etc.

Learning Outcomes

Key Objectives for Student Achievement

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the basic organization of cells, tissues, and organs, and relate structure to function.

• Recognize basic chemical principles and processes.

• Classify human tissue types according to form, function, and location.

• Explain cellular structure and function, including control mechanisms related to homeostasis.

• Describe the basic tissue types of the human body and their functions.

• Explain the process of bone development and growth, and discuss classification, identification, and location of bones.

• Identify macroscopic and microscopic structures of muscle cells and explain muscle physiology.

• Describe nervous tissue structure, cellular organization, and functional characteristics.

• Explain the structure and function of the nervous system divisions (Central, Peripheral, Autonomic).

• Distinguish between general and special senses, describing their structures and functions.

Course Structure

Teaching Methods

The course utilizes a variety of teaching methods to facilitate learning:

• Lecture

• Discussion

• Q&A

• Demonstration

• AV Presentations

• Internet research

• Reading assignments

• In-class problem solving

• Kahoot games

• CANVAS (Internet) supplemental instruction

Some lectures will be recorded and made available online. Students are responsible for information from both lecture and lab.

Grading System

Assessment and Evaluation

Grades are determined by performance on exams, quizzes, attendance, and laboratory activities. The grading scale is as follows:

Percentage (%)	Letter Grade
>90%	A
87.0-89.9%	A-
83.0-86.9%	B+
80.0-82.9%	B
77.0-79.9%	B-
73.0-76.9%	C+
70.0-72.9%	C
67.0-69.9%	C-
63.0-66.9%	D+
60.0-62.9%	D
<59.9%	F

Assessment Breakdown:

Assessment	Points
5 Semester Exams	450
Final Comprehensive Exam	130
Lecture Attendance	20
Laboratory (25%)	185
Total Possible Points	785

Lecture exams are taken online using Lockdown Browser and Respondus Monitor. Attendance is mandatory and contributes to the final grade.

Lecture and Lab Schedule

Weekly Topics and Important Dates

The following schedule outlines the topics covered each week, including exam dates and holidays:

Week	Date	Topic	Chapter
1	8/26	Body organization	Chp. 1
2	8/28	Terminology, Homeostasis & Tissues	Chp. 1, 4
3	9/2	No class – Labor day
4	9/4	Tissues – Kahoot	Chp. 4
5	9/9	Integument (1) – Kahoot	Chp. 5
6	9/11	Integument (2) – Kahoot	Chp. 5
7	9/12	Exam #1 (Chapters 1 and 4)
...	...	...	...
27	12/2	Exam #5 (Chapters 14, 15, 16)
28	12/11	Comprehensive Final Exam (Chapters 1-16)

Additional info: The full schedule includes weekly topics such as tissues, integumentary system, bones, joints, muscles, nervous system, and special senses, with periodic exams and holidays noted.

Policies and Procedures

Attendance, Withdrawal, and Student Support

• Attendance: Required for both lecture and lab. Points awarded for participation.

• Withdrawal Policy: Refer to CSN guidelines for withdrawal deadlines and procedures.

• Support Services: Resources available for students with disabilities, veterans, and those needing counseling or academic support.

• Technology: CANVAS and other online platforms are used for assignments and communication.

• Academic Integrity: Students must adhere to CSN policies regarding conduct and objectionable materials.

Key Concepts in Anatomy & Physiology I

Body Organization and Homeostasis

The human body is organized into hierarchical levels: cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems. Homeostasis refers to the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite external changes.

• Cells: Basic unit of life; perform specialized functions.

• Tissues: Groups of similar cells performing a common function (e.g., epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous).

• Organs: Structures composed of multiple tissue types working together.

• Organ Systems: Groups of organs performing major body functions (e.g., integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous).

Homeostasis Equation:

$\text{Homeostasis} = \text{Dynamic Equilibrium of Internal Environment}$

Cellular Structure and Function

Cells contain organelles that perform essential functions for survival and specialization.

• Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA).

• Mitochondria: Site of cellular respiration and energy production.

• Plasma Membrane: Regulates entry and exit of substances.

• Endoplasmic Reticulum & Golgi Apparatus: Synthesis and transport of proteins and lipids.

Tissues and Their Classification

Tissues are classified based on structure and function:

• Epithelial Tissue: Covers body surfaces and lines cavities.

• Connective Tissue: Supports, protects, and binds other tissues.

• Muscle Tissue: Responsible for movement (skeletal, cardiac, smooth).

• Nervous Tissue: Transmits electrical impulses for communication.

Muscular and Nervous Systems

The muscular system enables movement, posture, and heat production. The nervous system controls and coordinates body activities through electrical and chemical signals.

• Muscle Contraction Equation:

$\text{Force} = \text{Mass} \times \text{Acceleration}$

• Nervous System Divisions: Central Nervous System (CNS), Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).

Additional Information

• All exams and quizzes are administered online; students must ensure reliable internet access.

• No extra credit is offered; make-up exams require valid documentation.

• Students are expected to adhere to CSN policies regarding attendance, conduct, and academic integrity.