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

Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology I

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of anatomy and physiology, focusing on the human body's structure and function. Topics include homeostasis, cellular physiology, tissues, organ systems, and the integration of body systems. The course is designed for students in health sciences and related fields.

• Key Concepts: Homeostasis, anatomical terminology, tissue classification, organ system functions.

• Applications: Understanding normal body function and the basis for clinical assessment.

• Textbook: Human Anatomy & Physiology (Marieb & Hoehn, 12th edition).

• Assessment: Three exams, assignments, and online activities.

Course Structure & Assessment

Exams and Assignments

Students will complete three exams and several assignments throughout the term. Exams cover specific topics and are scheduled during class time. Assignments include online activities and written tasks designed to reinforce key concepts.

• Exam 1: Topics 1-4 (Friday, September 26th)

• Exam 2: Topics 5-8 (Friday, October 24th)

• Exam 3: Topics 9-12 (Friday, November 21st)

• Assignments: Due dates and instructions provided on the course website.

Grading Breakdown

The final grade is determined by exams, assignments, and participation in online activities.

Assessment	Weight (%)
Exam 1	15
Exam 2	15
Exam 3	15
Mastering A&P Assignments	5
Student Self-Assessment Assignments	5
Participation in Online Activities	5
Final Exam	40

Main Topics and Subtopics

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

This topic covers the basic terminology and concepts used in anatomy and physiology, including levels of organization and homeostasis.

• Definition of Terms: Molecule, organelle, cell, tissue, organ, organ system.

• Hierarchy of Structure: From chemical level to organ system.

• Homeostasis: The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

• Role of Nervous and Endocrine Systems: Key regulators of homeostasis.

• Hypothalamus: Integrates autonomic and endocrine functions.

2. Tissues of the Human Body

Students learn to identify and describe the four main tissue types and their functions.

• Epithelial Tissue: Covers surfaces, lines cavities, forms glands.

• Connective Tissue: Supports, binds, and protects organs.

• Muscle Tissue: Responsible for movement.

• Nervous Tissue: Transmits electrical impulses.

• Examples: Stratified squamous epithelium (skin), adipose tissue (fat storage).

3. The Integumentary System

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

• Layers of the Skin: Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis.

• Accessory Structures: Hair, nails, sweat glands, sebaceous glands.

• Functions: Protection, temperature regulation, sensation.

• Burns: Classification into first, second, and third degree.

4. Skeleton & Joints

This topic explores the structure and function of bones and joints, including classification and movement.

• Axial Skeleton: Skull, vertebral column, rib cage.

• Appendicular Skeleton: Limbs and girdles.

• Joint Types: Fibrous, cartilaginous, synovial.

• Movements: Flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation.

• Example: Knee joint (hinge), shoulder joint (ball-and-socket).

5. Muscles of the Body

Students study the organization and function of skeletal muscles, including muscle contraction and naming conventions.

• Muscle Structure: Muscle fibers, fascicles, tendons.

• Muscle Contraction: Sliding filament theory, role of actin and myosin.

• Naming Muscles: Based on location, shape, size, direction of fibers.

• Examples: Biceps brachii (arm flexion), masseter (chewing).

Key Definitions and Concepts

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

• Anatomical Position: Standard reference position for describing body parts and regions.

• Cellular Physiology: Study of cell function and processes.

• Tissue: Group of similar cells performing a specific function.

• Organ System: Group of organs working together to perform complex functions.

Important Formulas and Equations

• Surface Area to Volume Ratio: Important in cell physiology. $\text{Surface Area to Volume Ratio} = \frac{\text{Surface Area}}{\text{Volume}}$

• Homeostatic Feedback Loop: Describes regulation mechanisms. $\text{Stimulus} \rightarrow \text{Receptor} \rightarrow \text{Control Center} \rightarrow \text{Effector} \rightarrow \text{Response}$

Additional Info

• Course Website: Contains assignments, resources, and updates.

• Lecture Times: Tuesdays 11:30-12:50, Fridays 13:00-14:20.

• Instructor: Dr. J. Carnegie, PhD, M.Ed.

• Textbook Access: Mastering A&P online platform required for assignments.

• Academic Integrity: All work must be original and submitted by the student.