Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Study Guide - Smart Notes

Tailored notes based on your materials, expanded with key definitions, examples, and context.

Course Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure and expectations for Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology I, a foundational course in human anatomy and physiology. The course introduces students to the major organ systems, cellular processes, and the principles of homeostasis, with a focus on the nervous and endocrine systems. Students will engage in lectures, assignments, and exams to develop a comprehensive understanding of the human body.

Course Structure and Evaluation

Exams and Assignments

Three exams are scheduled throughout the term, each covering specific topics.
Assignments are due periodically and are designed to reinforce lecture material and textbook readings.
Final grade is determined by performance on exams, assignments, and participation in online activities.

Determination of Course Final Grade

Component	Details	Final Mark (%)
Exam 1 (Topics 1-4)	Friday, Sept 26 at 11:30 AM (online; Zoom)	20%
Exam 2 (Topics 5-8)	Friday, Oct 24 at 11:30 AM (online; Zoom)	20%
Mastering A&P (Chapter Assignments)	See syllabus for due dates	15%
Student Self-Assessment Assignments	See syllabus for due dates	5%
Final Exam (Topics 1-14)	See syllabus for date	40%

Textbook and Resources

Textbook: Human Anatomy & Physiology (10th, 11th, or 12th edition) by Marieb & Hoehn, Pearson.
Mastering A&P Access Code: Required for online assignments and quizzes.
Course Website: Contains lecture notes, assignments, and additional resources.

Main Topics and Subtopics

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

This section introduces the basic concepts and terminology used in anatomy and physiology, including the organization of the human body and the principle of homeostasis.

Definition of terms: Molecule, organelle, cell, tissue, organ, organ system.
Hierarchy of anatomical structure: Organism → Organ system → Organ → Tissue → Cell → Organelle → Molecule.
Regional and directional terms: Used to describe locations and positions in the body.
Homeostasis: The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions. Example: Regulation of body temperature.
Role of nervous and endocrine systems: Key regulators of homeostasis.
Hypothalamus: Integrates information between the autonomic and endocrine systems.

2. Tissues of the Human Body

This topic covers the classification, structure, and function of the four major tissue types found in the human body.

Epithelial tissue: Covers body surfaces and lines cavities. Example: Skin epidermis.
Connective tissue: Supports, binds, and protects organs. Example: Bone, blood, adipose tissue.
Muscle tissue: Responsible for movement. Example: Skeletal muscle, cardiac muscle, smooth muscle.
Nervous tissue: Transmits electrical impulses. Example: Brain, spinal cord, nerves.

Classification of Epithelial Tissue

Type	Structure	Location	Function
Simple squamous	Single layer, flat cells	Alveoli of lungs, blood vessels	Diffusion, filtration
Stratified squamous	Multiple layers, flat cells	Skin, mouth, esophagus	Protection
Simple cuboidal	Single layer, cube-shaped cells	Kidney tubules, glands	Secretion, absorption
Simple columnar	Single layer, tall cells	Digestive tract lining	Absorption, secretion

3. The Integumentary System

The integumentary system includes the skin and its accessory structures, providing protection and sensory functions.

Layers of the skin: Epidermis (outer), dermis (middle), hypodermis (deepest).
Cells of the epidermis: Keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells.
Accessory structures: Hair, nails, sweat glands, sebaceous glands.
Functions: Protection, temperature regulation, sensation.
Burns: Classified by degree (first, second, third).

4. Skeleton & Joints

This section explores the structure and function of the skeletal system, including bones and joints, and their role in movement and support.

Axial skeleton: Skull, vertebral column, rib cage.
Appendicular skeleton: Limbs and girdles.
Types of joints: Fibrous, cartilaginous, synovial.
Joint movements: Flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation.
Structural differences: Male vs. female pelvis, vertebral column regions.

5. Muscles of the Body

This topic covers the organization and function of skeletal muscles, including their structure and the mechanisms of contraction.

Muscle fiber anatomy: Sarcolemma, sarcoplasm, myofibrils, sarcomeres.
Types of muscle tissue: Skeletal, cardiac, smooth.
Muscle contraction: Sliding filament theory.
Major muscle groups: Muscles of the head, neck, trunk, limbs.

Sliding Filament Theory Equation

The process of muscle contraction can be summarized by the interaction of actin and myosin filaments:

Academic Policies and Support

Attendance: Regular attendance is expected for lectures and exams.
Accommodations: Students with documented needs may request exam accommodations.
Academic integrity: All assignments and exams must be completed independently.

Key Dates and Contact Information

Lectures: Tuesdays 11:30-12:50, Fridays 13:00-14:20
Instructor: Dr. J. Carnegie, PhD, MEd
Course website: APN1111

Additional info: Some details about assignment deadlines, exam dates, and textbook editions were inferred from the syllabus structure and standard academic practices.