Human Anatomy (BIOL 3446) Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Human Anatomy (BIOL 3446)

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to human anatomy for majors, focusing on the structure and function of the human body at multiple levels. It is designed for students pursuing careers in health and biological sciences, emphasizing both anatomical terminology and physiological concepts.

• Instructor: Xavier G. Aranda

• Lecture Textbook: Pearson - Human Anatomy, 9th edition, Marieb

• Lab Manual: Biology 3446: Human Anatomy, Dr. Nicholas Pollock

• Prerequisites: BIOL 1441, BIOL 1442 or 8 hours of Biology

Course Description and Learning Outcomes

Course Description

The course covers basic anatomical terms, cellular and molecular biology concepts, and the structure and function of major body systems. Emphasis is placed on physiology in lectures and anatomy in laboratory sessions. The course is recommended for pre-allied health professionals.

• Introduction to anatomical terminology

• Review of cellular and molecular biology

• Systematic study of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems

• Overview of development and surface anatomy

Student Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of the basic structures and organization of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems

• Apply molecular and cellular biology to physiological processes

• Develop critical thinking, communication, empirical, and teamwork skills

Course Structure and Grading

Assessment Components

Component	Points	Percentage
5 Lecture Exams (60 Q’s)	300	30%
20 Quizzes/Assignments	200	20%
Comprehensive Final Exam	100	10%
Laboratory Grade	400	40%
Total	1000	100%

Grading Scale

Points	Percentage	Grade
895-1000	89.5-100	A
795-894	79.5-89.4	B
695-794	69.5-79.4	C
595-694	59.5-69.4	D
0-594	0-59.4	F

Exam and Assignment Policies

• Exams are administered via LockDown Browser and Canvas; a webcam is required.

• No make-up exams except with documented, justifiable excuses (e.g., medical, family emergency).

• Comprehensive final exam is mandatory.

• No extra credit or grade curves.

Course Modules and Topics

Module 1: Introduction and Foundations

• Ch 1: The Human Body: An Orientation

• Ch 2: Cells (Review)

• Ch 3: Basic Embryology / Development (Overview)

• Ch 4: Tissues

• Ch 5: The Integumentary System

• Surface Anatomy (PPT)

Exam #1: Covers Chapters 1-5 and Surface Anatomy

Module 2: Skeletal System

• Ch 6: Bones and Skeletal Tissues

• Ch 7: Bones, Part 1: The Axial Skeleton

• Ch 8: Bones, Part 2: The Appendicular Skeleton

• Ch 9: Joints

Exam #2: Covers Skeletal System topics

Module 3: Muscular and Cardiovascular Systems

• Ch 10: Skeletal Muscle Tissue

• Ch 11: Muscles of the Body

• Ch 18: Blood

• Ch 19: The Heart

• Ch 20: Blood Vessels

Exam #3: Covers Muscular and Cardiovascular Systems

Module 4: Nervous System and Special Senses

• Ch 12: Fundamentals of the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue

• Ch 13: The Central Nervous System

• Ch 14: The Peripheral Nervous System

• Ch 15: The Autonomic Nervous System

• Ch 16: The Special Senses

Exam #4: Covers Nervous System and Special Senses

Module 5: Endocrine, Lymphatic, and Organ Systems

• Ch 17: The Endocrine System

• Ch 21: The Lymphatic and Immune Systems

• Ch 22: The Respiratory System

• Ch 23: The Digestive System

• Ch 24: The Urinary System

• Ch 25: The Reproductive Systems

Exam #5: Covers Endocrine, Lymphatic, and Organ Systems

Final Exam

• Date: 05/06/26, 11:00 am – 1:30 pm

• Format: Comprehensive (covers all modules)

Study and Success Strategies

• Attend lectures and review PowerPoints, as exams are based on these materials.

• Actively study by recalling, writing, drawing, speaking, and teaching concepts.

• Memorize definitions and structures before focusing on physiological concepts.

• Utilize practice exams and study guides provided on Canvas and Pearson.

• Form study groups and seek help during office hours as needed.

Institutional and Course Policies

• Follow all university policies regarding attendance, academic integrity, and accommodations.

• Lab safety training is mandatory before participating in laboratory activities.

• Emergency procedures and contact information are provided for student safety.

• All official communication will be via UTA email and Canvas.

Additional Resources

• Academic Success Center: Tutoring, mentoring, and supplemental instruction

• IDEAS Center: Focused support for transfer students, sophomores, and veterans

• English Writing Center: Assistance with writing assignments

• Library Academic Plaza: Central hub for academic support services

Summary Table: Major Body Systems Covered

System	Chapters	Main Focus
Integumentary	5	Skin, hair, nails, glands
Skeletal	6-9	Bones, cartilage, joints
Muscular	10-11	Muscle tissue and organization
Nervous	12-16	Neural tissue, CNS, PNS, senses
Endocrine	17	Hormone-producing glands
Cardiovascular	18-20	Blood, heart, vessels
Lymphatic/Immune	21	Lymphatic organs, immunity
Respiratory	22	Airways, lungs, gas exchange
Digestive	23	Alimentary canal, accessory organs
Urinary	24	Kidneys, bladder, excretion
Reproductive	25	Male and female reproductive systems

Key Definitions

• 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.

• Systemic Anatomy: Study of the body by systems (e.g., skeletal, muscular).

• Surface Anatomy: Study of external features and landmarks of the body.

Tips for Success

• Stay organized and keep track of all deadlines and exam dates.

• Engage in active learning strategies for better retention.

• Seek help early if you encounter difficulties with course material.

• Utilize all available resources, including office hours and academic support centers.

Additional info: This guide summarizes the syllabus and course structure for BIOL 3446, aligning with the standard topics in a college-level Human Anatomy course. For detailed content on each chapter, refer to the course textbook and lecture materials.