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BIOL-201 Human Anatomy & Physiology I: Syllabus and Study Guide

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Course Overview

Introduction to Human Anatomy & Physiology I

This course provides a foundational study of the structure and function of the human body, focusing on the integumentary, skeletal, nervous, and muscular systems. It emphasizes the relationships between structure and function, and integrates laboratory and lecture experiences.

  • Credits: 3-4

  • Prerequisites: Grade of 'C' or higher in BIOL 101 or equivalent high school biology and chemistry within the last three years.

  • Textbooks: Human Anatomy and Physiology with Mastering A&P, Human Anatomy & Physiology Laboratory Manual

Course Objectives & Outcomes

Major Topics Covered

  • Introduction to the Human Body: Anatomical terminology, homeostatic feedback systems, positive and negative feedback.

  • Histology: Identification and classification of tissue types, their functions, and homeostatic imbalances.

  • Integumentary System: Structure and function of skin and accessory organs, homeostatic imbalances.

  • Bones and Skeletal Tissue: Bone structure, function, and homeostatic imbalances.

  • The Skeletal System: Identification of bones and axial/appendicular skeleton.

  • Articulations (Joints): Types and functions of joints, homeostatic imbalances.

  • Nervous System: Structure and function of nervous tissue, action potentials, synaptic transmission, and homeostatic imbalances.

  • Central Nervous System: Identification of brain and spinal cord components, their functions, and homeostatic imbalances.

  • Peripheral Nervous System: Identification of nerves and ganglia, their functions, and homeostatic imbalances.

  • Autonomic Nervous System: Structure and function, homeostatic imbalances.

  • Special Senses: Structure and function of sensory organs, homeostatic imbalances.

  • Muscular System: Identification of muscle tissue types, structure and function, homeostatic imbalances.

Course Structure

Lecture and Laboratory Components

  • Lectures: Delivered online asynchronously; students are responsible for watching recorded lectures and taking notes.

  • Laboratory: In-person sessions focusing on safety, microscope use, tissue identification, anatomical models, and muscle identification.

Methods of Evaluation/Assessment

Grading Breakdown

Type of Graded Activity

Points

Assignments/Dynamic Study Modules/Lab Reports

300

Exams

600

Lab Practicals

300

Total Points for Semester

1200

Grade Scale

Grade

Percentage (points)

A

100-90% (1200-1080 points)

B

89.9-80% (1079-960 points)

C

79.9-70% (959-840 points)

D

69.9-65% (839-780 points)

F

64.9-0% (779-0 points)

Laboratory Safety and Procedures

Key Safety Rules

  • Read and prepare lab instructions before performing tasks.

  • Follow instructor directions and comply with safety protocols.

  • No eating, drinking, or unauthorized activities in the lab.

  • Wear appropriate clothing and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

  • Report all accidents, injuries, or chemical spills immediately.

  • Dispose of chemicals and biological materials according to instructions.

Attendance and Academic Integrity

Attendance Policy

  • Regular attendance is required for successful completion.

  • Missed exams may be made up with a penalty; lab practicals must be completed within the week assigned.

Academic Integrity

  • Cheating and plagiarism are strictly prohibited.

  • All work must be original and properly cited.

  • Unauthorized sharing of NetID passwords or course content is not allowed.

Support Services

Available Resources

  • Student Success Center: Academic advising, registration, career counseling.

  • Financial Aid, Service Center, Testing, Tutoring, Learning Resources Center (Library).

  • Math Enrichment Center, Mental Health Services, Office of Public Safety, Student Tech Support.

Course Calendar & Outline

Weekly Topics and Assignments

Week

Start Date

End Date

Wednesday Lab

Online Lectures

1

8/19/25

8/21/25

Syllabus, Lab Safety & A

Chapter 1 Lectures

2

8/26/25

8/28/25

Lab Practical 1

Chapter 2 Lectures

3

9/2/25

9/4/25

Unit 1 & 2

Chapter 3 Lectures

4

9/9/25

9/11/25

Exam 1 & Data 1-14

Chapter 4 Lectures

5

9/16/25

9/18/25

Lab Practical 1

Chapter 5 Lectures

6

9/23/25

9/25/25

Exam 2

Chapter 6 Lectures

7

9/30/25

10/2/25

Lab Practical 2

Chapter 7 Lectures

8

10/7/25

10/9/25

Exam 3 & Data 1-14

Chapter 8 Lectures

9

10/14/25

10/16/25

Lab Practical 3

Chapter 9 Lectures

10

10/21/25

10/23/25

Exam 4

Chapter 10 Lectures

11

10/28/25

10/30/25

No School Thanksgiving

Chapter 11 Lectures

12

11/4/25

11/6/25

Exam 5 & Data 1-14

Chapter 12 Lectures

13

11/11/25

11/13/25

Lab Practical 3

Chapter 13 Lectures

14

11/18/25

11/20/25

FINAL EXAM at 5:30 pm

FINAL EXAM & 5 Friday

Key Terms and Concepts

  • Anatomical Terminology: Standardized language used to describe locations and relationships of body parts.

  • Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment.

  • Tissues: Groups of similar cells performing a common function; includes epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.

  • Feedback Systems: Mechanisms that regulate physiological processes; includes positive and negative feedback.

  • Action Potential: Electrical signal transmitted along neurons; essential for nervous system function.

Formulas and Equations

  • Homeostatic Feedback Equation:

  • Action Potential Equation:

where is membrane potential, is resting potential, and is change due to ion movement.

Additional Info

  • This syllabus covers all major topics required for a first-semester college Anatomy & Physiology course, including foundational terminology, tissue identification, and major organ systems.

  • Students are expected to engage in both online and in-person learning, complete assignments, and adhere to safety and academic integrity policies.

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