Biology 108: Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology – Course Structure and Key Topics

Course Overview

This study guide outlines the structure and major content areas of Biology 108: Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology. The course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental concepts of human anatomy and physiology, covering the organization, structure, and function of the human body across multiple systems.

Module Breakdown and Key Topics

Module 1: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

• Orientation to the Human Body: Overview of anatomical terminology, body organization, and orientation.

• Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology: Definitions and distinctions between anatomy (structure) and physiology (function).

• Course Community: Importance of engaging with peers and instructors for collaborative learning.

Module 2: Basic Chemistry and Cells

• Basic Chemistry: Fundamental chemical principles relevant to biological systems, including atoms, molecules, and chemical reactions.

• Microscopy & Introduction to Cells: Use of microscopes to study cell structure; introduction to cell theory and cell types.

Module 3: Tissues and Body Membranes

• Tissues: Classification and functions of the four basic tissue types: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.

• Body Membranes: Structure and function of membranes such as mucous, serous, and cutaneous membranes.

Module 4: Tissues (continued) and Cell Transport

• Cell Transport: Mechanisms of movement across cell membranes, including diffusion, osmosis, and active transport.

• Lab on Tissues: Practical examination of tissue samples under the microscope.

Module 5: Skeletal and Muscular Systems

• Bones: Structure, classification, and function of bones; overview of the skeletal system.

• Muscles: Types of muscle tissue, muscle anatomy, and physiology of muscle contraction.

Module 6: Muscular System and Exam 2

• Muscles (continued): In-depth study of muscle groups and their roles in movement.

• Exam 2: Covers chapters 4–6, focusing on tissues, bones, and muscles.

Module 7: Nervous System

• Nervous System: Structure and function of neurons, central and peripheral nervous systems, and neural communication.

• Lab Midterm: Practical assessment of laboratory skills and knowledge.

Module 8: Blood and Endocrine System

• Blood: Composition and functions of blood, including red and white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

• Endocrine System: Overview of hormone-producing glands and their regulatory roles.

Module 9: Nervous System Lab and Exam 3

• Nervous System Lab: Hands-on activities to reinforce nervous system concepts.

• Exam 3: Covers chapters 7, 9, and 10, focusing on the nervous and endocrine systems.

Module 10: Cardiovascular and Lymphatic Systems

• Cardiovascular System: Anatomy and physiology of the heart, blood vessels, and circulation.

• Lymphatic System: Structure and function of lymphatic vessels, nodes, and immune response.

Module 11: Respiratory and Digestive Systems

• Respiratory System: Anatomy of the respiratory tract, mechanics of breathing, and gas exchange.

• Digestive System: Structure and function of the digestive organs, processes of digestion and absorption.

Module 12: Urinary and Reproductive Systems

• Urinary System: Anatomy and physiology of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra; urine formation.

• Reproductive System: Male and female reproductive anatomy, gametogenesis, and hormonal regulation.

Module 13: Disease Presentations and Review

• Disease Presentations: Student-led presentations on diseases affecting various organ systems.

• Review: Preparation for final lab and cumulative exams.

Module 14: Final Review and Exams

• Final Lab and Cumulative Lecture Final: Comprehensive assessment covering all course material.

Summary Table: Major Human Body Systems Covered

System	Main Functions	Key Structures
Skeletal	Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell formation	Bones, joints, cartilage
Muscular	Movement, posture, heat production	Skeletal muscles, tendons
Nervous	Control, coordination, response to stimuli	Brain, spinal cord, nerves
Endocrine	Hormone production, regulation of metabolism and growth	Pituitary, thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas
Cardiovascular	Transport of nutrients, gases, wastes; immune response	Heart, blood vessels, blood
Lymphatic	Fluid balance, immune defense	Lymph nodes, lymphatic vessels, spleen
Respiratory	Gas exchange (O2 and CO2)	Lungs, trachea, bronchi
Digestive	Breakdown and absorption of nutrients	Stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas
Urinary	Excretion of wastes, water and electrolyte balance	Kidneys, ureters, bladder
Reproductive	Production of gametes, reproduction	Ovaries, testes, uterus

Key Definitions

• Anatomy: The study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another.

• Physiology: The study of the function of the body’s structural machinery.

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment despite external changes.

• Tissue: A group of similar cells that perform a common function.

• Organ System: A group of organs that work together to perform major functions or meet physiological needs of the body.

Additional info:

• This guide is based on the course schedule and outlines the major topics and systems covered in a typical college-level Anatomy & Physiology course.

• For each system, students should be familiar with both structure (anatomy) and function (physiology), as well as common diseases and disorders.