BackHuman Anatomy and Physiology I: Course Overview and Study Guide
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Course Overview
Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology
This course provides a comprehensive, medical study of the human body, focusing on the anatomical and physiological principles that underlie health and disease. It is designed for students pursuing careers in health sciences, nursing, nutrition, and related fields, as well as anyone interested in understanding the human body.
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.
Clinical Applications: Integration of structure and function with clinical and pathological problem solving.
Additional info: The course fulfills Natural Science requirements and emphasizes both normal and abnormal (pathological) processes.
Course Topics and Structure
Main Systems and Concepts Covered
The following systems and topics are covered throughout the semester:
Human Body and Anatomical Terminology
Chemistry Aspects of Metabolism
Cells and Tissues
Integumentary System
Skeletal System
Muscular System
Nervous System
Special Senses
Homeostasis
Clinical Tests, Cytology, Histology, Pathology, and Pathophysiology
Additional info: The course includes quizzes, exams, papers, and discussions to reinforce learning.
Course Learning Outcomes
Expected Skills and Knowledge
Terminology: Demonstrate knowledge of anatomical and medical terminology.
Critical Thinking: Apply critical thinking skills to relate structure and function for every aspect of the human body.
Clinical Relevance: Relate course knowledge to clinical, health careers, and personal choices involving health and wellness.
Technological Advances: Familiarity with recent technological advances and pharmaceutical therapies for managing pathophysiological states.
Course Assignments and Assessment
Types of Assignments
Exams and Quizzes: Objective questions, critical thinking, and application of knowledge.
Papers: Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) papers summarizing peer-reviewed articles relevant to course systems.
Discussions: Participation in online discussions to reinforce concepts.
Critically Appraised Topic (CAT) Paper Structure
Clinical question or topic
Clinical data with digital object identifier (DOI)
Summary of the article
Information about the study
Relevance to course material
Reviewer’s name
Date reviewed
Additional comments about the study
Course Grading Policy
Grading Scale
Grades are based on lecture tests, midterm, final, quizzes, and class discussions. A minimum grade of C is required for progression in health-related programs.
Grade | Percentage (or Point) Range |
|---|---|
A | 93%–100% |
A- | 90%–92% |
B+ | 87%–89% |
B | 83%–86% |
B- | 80%–82% |
C+ | 77%–79% |
C | 73%–76% |
C- | 70%–72% |
D+ | 67%–69% |
D | 60%–66% |
F | 0%–59% |
Course Schedule
Weekly Topics and Assignments
Week | Class Subject or Activity | Assignments |
|---|---|---|
1 | Overview of A&P, Homeostasis, Anatomical Language | Chapter 1, Discussion 1, Practice Quiz |
2 | A&P Chemistry, Biochemistry | Chapter 2, Discussion 2, Quiz 1 |
3 | Cells | Chapter 3, Discussion 3, Quiz 2 |
4 | Tissues | Chapter 4, Discussion 4, Quiz 3 |
5 | Integumentary System | Chapter 5, Discussion 5, Quiz 4 |
6 | Bones and Skeletal Tissue | Chapter 6, Discussion 6, Quiz 5 |
7 | Bones & Associated Skeletal Joints | Chapter 7, Discussion 7, Quiz 6 |
8 | Joints | Chapter 8, Discussion 8, Quiz 7 |
9 | Muscles | Chapter 9, Discussion 9, Quiz 8 |
10 | Muscles | Chapter 10, Discussion 10, Quiz 9 |
11 | Fundamentals of the Nervous System | Chapter 11, Discussion 11, Quiz 10 |
12 | Central Nervous System | Text 2 (Chapters 9-11), Chapter 12 |
13 | Peripheral Nervous System | Chapter 13, Discussion 12, Quiz 10 |
14 | Autonomic Nervous System | Chapter 14, Discussion 14, Quiz 10, Paper 3 Due |
15 | Special Senses | Chapter 15, Discussion 15, Quiz 11 |
16 | Final (Chapters 9-15) | Chapter 15, Discussion 15, Quiz 11 |
Key Concepts in Anatomy & Physiology
Homeostasis
Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.
Definition: The maintenance of relatively stable internal conditions.
Example: Regulation of body temperature, blood glucose levels.
Mechanism: Involves feedback systems, primarily negative feedback.
Equation:
Anatomical Terminology
Standardized terms are used to describe locations and relationships of body parts.
Anterior (ventral): Toward the front of the body.
Posterior (dorsal): Toward the back of the body.
Superior: Above another part.
Inferior: Below another part.
Medial: Toward the midline.
Lateral: Away from the midline.
Cell Structure and Function
Cells are the basic structural and functional units of life.
Cell Membrane: Regulates entry and exit of substances.
Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA).
Cytoplasm: Site of metabolic activity.
Tissues
Tissues are groups of similar cells performing a common function.
Epithelial Tissue: Covers body surfaces and lines cavities.
Connective Tissue: Supports and binds other tissues.
Muscle Tissue: Responsible for movement.
Nervous Tissue: Transmits electrical impulses.
Integumentary System
The integumentary system includes the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands.
Functions: Protection, temperature regulation, sensation.
Layers of Skin: Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis.
Skeletal System
The skeletal system provides support, protection, and enables movement.
Bones: Rigid structures for support and protection.
Joints: Allow movement between bones.
Cartilage: Provides cushioning and flexibility.
Muscular System
The muscular system is responsible for movement and posture.
Skeletal Muscle: Voluntary movement.
Cardiac Muscle: Heart contraction.
Smooth Muscle: Involuntary movement in organs.
Nervous System
The nervous system controls and coordinates body activities.
Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.
Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves outside the CNS.
Autonomic Nervous System: Regulates involuntary functions.
Special Senses
Special senses include vision, hearing, taste, smell, and equilibrium.
Vision: Eyes detect light and transmit signals to the brain.
Hearing: Ears detect sound waves.
Taste and Smell: Chemoreceptors detect chemicals.
Equilibrium: Maintained by structures in the inner ear.
Study Tips and Success Strategies
Follow the online schedule and complete assignments on time.
Review lecture notes, textbook chapters, and participate in discussions.
Use critical thinking to connect structure and function.
Prepare for exams with quizzes and practice questions.
Seek help from instructors and peers when needed.
Additional info: Survival tips include regular review, organization, and seeking assistance when needed.
