PHYS 200 Human Physiology Course Schedule & Study Guide

Course Overview

This study guide summarizes the PHYS 200 Human Physiology course schedule for Summer 2026, outlining the main units, weekly objectives, and chapter coverage. The course is structured to systematically cover foundational and advanced topics in human physiology, aligning closely with the standard ANP college curriculum.

Unit and Weekly Breakdown

Unit One: Foundations of Physiology

• Introduction to Physiology: Overview of physiological principles, homeostasis, and the scope of human physiology.

• Molecular Interactions: Study of chemical bonds, molecular structure, and interactions essential for cellular function.

• Basic Chemistry: Fundamental chemistry concepts relevant to biological systems, including atoms, molecules, and reactions.

• Cells & Tissues: Structure and function of cells, cellular compartmentation, and classification of tissues.

• Energy & Cellular Metabolism: Mechanisms of energy production, metabolic pathways, and cellular respiration.

Chapters Covered: 1-4

Unit Two: Neural and Muscular Systems

• Membrane Dynamics: Transport across cell membranes, osmosis, diffusion, and membrane potential.

• Communication, Integration, and Homeostasis: Cellular signaling, feedback mechanisms, and integration of physiological responses.

• Muscles: Muscle structure, contraction mechanisms, and types of muscle tissue.

• Neurons: Neuronal structure, function, and network properties.

• CNS Sensory Physiology: Central nervous system organization and sensory processing.

• Efferent Division & Control of Body Movement: Autonomic and somatic motor control, integration of movement.

Chapters Covered: 5-13

Unit Three: Endocrine, Cardiovascular, and Immune Systems

• Endocrine System: Hormone synthesis, secretion, and action; endocrine regulation.

• Endocrine Control of Growth and Metabolism: Hormonal control of growth, metabolism, and homeostasis.

• Blood: Composition, functions, and properties of blood.

• Cardiovascular Physiology & Blood Flow: Heart function, blood vessels, and regulation of blood pressure.

• Immune System: Innate and adaptive immunity, immune responses, and disease defense mechanisms.

Chapters Covered: 7, 14-16, 23-24

Unit Four: Respiratory, Renal, Digestive, and Integrative Physiology

• Breathing & Gas Exchange: Mechanics of breathing, gas exchange, and transport.

• Digestive System: Structure and function of the digestive tract, nutrient absorption.

• Kidneys, Fluids, and Electrolytes: Renal physiology, fluid balance, and electrolyte regulation.

• Metabolism & Energy Balance: Metabolic pathways, energy expenditure, and regulation.

• Exercise Physiology: Physiological adaptations to exercise.

• Reproduction and Development: Reproductive system structure, function, and developmental biology.

Chapters Covered: 17-22, 25-26

Assessment and Assignments

• Quizzes: Four quizzes covering major chapter blocks (e.g., Chapters 1-4, 8-10 & 12, 15-20, 17-21).

• Exams: Three unit exams and a comprehensive final exam (Chapters 1-26).

• Homework: Weekly assignments due Friday at 5pm, including concept checks, running problems, chapter summaries, review questions, and MasteringA&P activities.

Textbook and Readings

• Primary Text: Human Physiology, 8th Edition by Silverthorn.

• Required Reading: Assigned chapters must be read before each lecture.

Course Structure and Study Recommendations

• Follow the weekly schedule to ensure timely completion of readings and assignments.

• Utilize concept checks and review questions to reinforce understanding.

• Prepare for quizzes and exams by reviewing chapter summaries and running problems.

• Engage with MasteringA&P for interactive learning and assessment.

Visual Reference

The following image represents the institutional affiliation for the course: