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

Essentials of Anatomy & Physiology I

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body. Topics include homeostasis, cellular physiology, tissues, integumentary system, skeleton, joints, and muscles. The course is designed for students in health sciences and related fields.

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

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

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

• Course Website: ANP1111

Course Structure and Evaluation

Exams and Assignments

Students will complete three exams and several assignments throughout the term. Exams will cover lecture material and assigned readings. Assignments are designed to reinforce key concepts and encourage application of knowledge.

• Exam 1: Topics 1-4

• Exam 2: Topics 5-8

• Exam 3: Topics 9-12

• Assignments: Mastering A&P online exercises, short answer questions, and practical applications

Component	Details	Final Mark (%)
Exam 1	Friday, Sept 26, 11:30 AM (online/Zoom)	15
Exam 2	Friday, Oct 24, 11:30 AM (online/Zoom)	15
Mastering A&P Assignments	See syllabus	5
Student Self-Assessment Assignments	See syllabus	5
Final Exam	See syllabus	60

Main Topics and Subtopics

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

This topic covers the basic organization of the human body, definitions of key terms, and the concept of homeostasis.

• Definition of Terms: Anatomy, physiology, molecule, organelle, cell, tissue, organ, organ system

• Hierarchy of Anatomical Structure: Molecule → Organelle → Cell → Tissue → Organ → Organ System → Organism

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

• Key Regulators: Hypothalamus, nervous and endocrine systems

Example: Regulation of body temperature by the hypothalamus

2. Tissues of the Human Body

This topic explores the four main tissue types and their functions, with emphasis on epithelial and connective tissues.

• Types of Tissues: Epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous

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

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

• Muscle Tissue: Responsible for movement

• Nervous Tissue: Transmits electrical impulses

Example: Simple squamous epithelium lining the alveoli of the lungs

3. The Integumentary System

This topic describes the structure and function of the skin, including its layers and accessory structures.

• Layers of the Skin: Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis

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

• Functions: Protection, sensation, temperature regulation

Example: Sweat glands help regulate body temperature through evaporative cooling

4. Skeleton & Joints

This topic covers the bones of the axial and appendicular skeleton, joint types, and their functions.

• Axial Skeleton: Skull, vertebral column, rib cage

• Appendicular Skeleton: Limbs, pectoral and pelvic girdles

• Joint Types: Fibrous, cartilaginous, synovial

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

Example: The knee joint is a synovial joint allowing flexion and extension

5. Muscles of the Body

This topic introduces the structure and function of skeletal muscles, including muscle fiber anatomy and contraction mechanisms.

• Skeletal Muscle Structure: Muscle fibers, myofibrils, sarcomeres

• Contraction Mechanism: Sliding filament theory

• Major Muscle Groups: Muscles of the head, neck, trunk, limbs

Example: The biceps brachii muscle flexes the forearm at the elbow

Key Definitions

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

• Physiology: The study of the function of body parts and how they work to carry out life-sustaining activities

• Homeostasis: The ability of the body to maintain a stable internal environment

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

Important Formulas and Concepts

• Surface Area to Volume Ratio: Important for understanding cell size and function $\text{Surface Area to Volume Ratio} = \frac{\text{Surface Area}}{\text{Volume}}$

• Homeostatic Feedback Loop: Negative feedback maintains stability $\text{Stimulus} \rightarrow \text{Receptor} \rightarrow \text{Control Center} \rightarrow \text{Effector} \rightarrow \text{Response}$

Academic Policies

Students are expected to adhere to the academic regulations of the university. All work must be submitted by the stated deadlines. Accommodations are available for students with documented needs. Plagiarism and academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited.

Additional Info

• Assignments and exams are scheduled throughout the term; see the course website for details.

• Mastering A&P online assignments require access codes; check the syllabus for purchasing options.

• Students are encouraged to participate in online forums and seek help from the instructor as needed.