Human Anatomy and Physiology I: Study Guide and Course Overview

Course Introduction

Overview of Human Anatomy & Physiology I

This course provides an introduction to the anatomical methodology and physiological mechanisms of the human body. Students will explore the organization of living systems, the structure and function of cells, tissues, and major organ systems, and the relationships between structure and function at both micro and macro levels. Laboratory activities are included to reinforce theoretical concepts.

• Prerequisites: BIOB 101 or BIOB 160 or CHMY 105 or CHMY 121, or instructor's consent.

• Credits: 4

• Required Textbooks: Human Anatomy and Physiology by Marieb & Hoehn, Pearson Benjamin Cummings Publishing Company, 13th edition (2024).

Course Learning Outcomes

Key Competencies and Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

• Define homeostasis and explain its significance, differentiating between negative and positive feedback mechanisms.

• Explain basic chemical composition of matter, chemical bonding, and reactions; differentiate between inorganic and organic molecules.

• Describe and compare cell structures and functions, and methods of tissue classification.

• Name tissue types and layers of the skin; compare and contrast structures of the integumentary system and its appendages.

• Explain bone classification, functions, development, and structure; classify joints structurally and functionally.

• Identify bones and structures of the axial and appendicular skeleton.

• Compare and contrast basic types of muscle tissue; describe micro and macro structure of muscle and mechanisms of muscle contraction.

• Identify muscles of the body, and name the action, origin, and insertion of these muscles.

• Explain functional and structural divisions of the nervous system; describe the structure and function of nervous tissue and basic concepts of neurophysiology.

• Describe structure and function of the brain and spinal cord; components and actions of the peripheral nervous system and autonomic nervous system.

• Identify selected nerves; name the muscles innervated by each nerve.

• Explain basic concepts of neural integration.

• Identify endocrine organs; list basic functions of major endocrine organs and describe homeostatic imbalances.

• Compare mechanisms of water-soluble vs. lipid-soluble hormones.

• Describe structure and function of organs of the special senses (taste, smell, vision, hearing, balance); recognize homeostatic imbalances of the senses.

Course Outline

Main Topics Covered

The following topics will be covered in the first semester of BIOH 201:

1. Organization of living systems and terminology

2. Chemistry including inorganic and carbon chemistry

3. Cell structure and function

4. Tissue structure and function

5. Nerves, nerve conduction, and the nervous system and reflexes

6. The endocrine system structure and function

7. Integumentary system structure and function

8. Skeletal and articulation structure and function

9. Muscle structure and function

Assessment and Grading

Evaluation Methods

Students will be assessed through a combination of exams, quizzes, lab reports, homework assignments, class participation, and practical exams. The grading breakdown is as follows:

Assessment	Percentage of Final Grade
Homework and Labs	approximately 15-20%
Quizzes, Exams, Practicals	approximately 70-75%
In class activities	approximately 5-10%

• Quizzes are worth 30 points each; the lowest two quiz scores will be dropped.

• Exams are worth approximately 150-200 points each.

• Practicals are worth approximately 200 points each.

• The fourth unit exam will likely be included with the final exam.

Grading Scale

Letter Grade	Percent
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	63-66
D-	56-62
F	0-55

Key Concepts and Definitions

Homeostasis

Homeostasis is the process by which living organisms maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions. It involves feedback mechanisms:

• Negative feedback: Reduces the effect of a stimulus to maintain equilibrium (e.g., body temperature regulation).

• Positive feedback: Enhances the effect of a stimulus (e.g., blood clotting).

Chemistry of Life

Understanding the chemical basis of life is essential for studying anatomy and physiology. Key concepts include:

• Atoms and molecules: The basic units of matter.

• Chemical bonds: Ionic, covalent, and hydrogen bonds.

• Organic vs. inorganic molecules: Organic molecules contain carbon and are found in living organisms; inorganic molecules do not.

Example equation:

$\text{H}_2O \rightarrow 2\text{H}^+ + \text{O}^{2-}$

Cell Structure and Function

Cells are the basic units of life. Major components include:

• Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA).

• Cell membrane: Regulates entry and exit of substances.

• Organelles: Specialized structures (e.g., mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum).

Tissue Types

Tissues are groups of similar cells performing a common function. Four primary types:

• 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.

Major Organ Systems

The course covers the following organ systems:

• Integumentary system: Skin and its appendages.

• Skeletal system: Bones and joints.

• Muscular system: Muscles and mechanisms of contraction.

• Nervous system: Brain, spinal cord, nerves, and reflexes.

• Endocrine system: Hormone-producing glands.

• Special senses: Taste, smell, vision, hearing, and balance.

Laboratory Component

Lab Activities and Etiquette

Laboratory sessions reinforce lecture material through hands-on activities, including dissections, specimen handling, and lab reports. Students are expected to follow safety and etiquette guidelines, such as proper handling of specimens and equipment, maintaining cleanliness, and respecting lab rules.

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to spend at least 12 hours per week studying the material and completing assignments.

• Digital course materials and online resources are available through Eagle Online and VitalSource.

• Support services include tutoring centers and writing labs.