Semester Study Guide: Human Anatomy II (ANAV 122) – 2026

Course Overview: Human Anatomy II (ANAV 122)

This course provides an in-depth study of major human body systems, focusing on their structure, function, and integration. The curriculum is organized into study units that align with key chapters from Martini et al.'s Anatomy & Physiology textbook. The course includes lectures, practical sessions, group assignments, and assessments to reinforce understanding of anatomical and physiological concepts.

Course Structure and Main Topics

• Study Unit 1: The Nervous System and Special Senses (Chapters 12, 13, 14, 16, 17)

• Study Unit 2: The Respiratory System (Chapter 23)

• Study Unit 3: The Cardiovascular System (Chapters 19, 20, 21)

• Study Unit 4: The Digestive System (Chapter 24)

• Study Unit 5: The Urinary System (Chapter 26)

• Study Unit 6: The Reproductive System (Chapter 28)

Assessment Overview

• Formative Assessments: Three class tests (covering SUs 1+2, 3+4, 5+6) and weekly practical group assignments.

• Summative Assessments: Two main exam opportunities covering all study units.

Detailed Study Units and Key Topics

Study Unit 1: The Nervous System and Special Senses

This unit explores the structure and function of the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, peripheral nerves, and sensory organs.

• Nervous Tissue (Ch. 12): Structure and function of neurons and neuroglia; organization of nervous tissue.

• The Spinal Cord, Spinal Nerves, and Spinal Reflexes (Ch. 13): Anatomy of the spinal cord, reflex arcs, and neural pathways.

• The Brain and Cranial Nerves (Ch. 14): Major brain regions, cranial nerves, and their functions.

• The Autonomic Nervous System and Higher-Order Functions (Ch. 16): Sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions, integration of autonomic functions.

• The Special Senses (Ch. 17): Anatomy and physiology of vision, hearing, equilibrium, taste, and smell.

Study Unit 2: The Respiratory System

This unit covers the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system, focusing on gas exchange and respiratory regulation.

• Major Structures: Nasal cavity, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs.

• Functions: Ventilation, external and internal respiration, gas transport.

• Regulation: Neural and chemical control of breathing.

Study Unit 3: The Cardiovascular System

This unit examines the components and functions of the cardiovascular system, including blood, the heart, and blood vessels.

• Blood (Ch. 19): Composition, functions, and disorders of blood.

• The Heart (Ch. 20): Anatomy of the heart, cardiac cycle, conduction system.

• Blood Vessels and Circulation (Ch. 21): Types of blood vessels, systemic and pulmonary circuits, blood pressure regulation.

Study Unit 4: The Digestive System

This unit focuses on the structure and function of the digestive tract and accessory organs.

• Major Organs: Oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines.

• Accessory Organs: Liver, pancreas, gallbladder.

• Processes: Ingestion, digestion, absorption, excretion.

Study Unit 5: The Urinary System

This unit explores the anatomy and physiology of the urinary system and its role in homeostasis.

• Major Structures: Kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra.

• Functions: Filtration, reabsorption, secretion, urine formation, fluid and electrolyte balance.

Study Unit 6: The Reproductive System

This unit covers the male and female reproductive systems, including gametogenesis and hormonal regulation.

• Male Reproductive System: Testes, ducts, accessory glands, penis.

• Female Reproductive System: Ovaries, uterine tubes, uterus, vagina, external genitalia.

• Reproductive Physiology: Gametogenesis, menstrual cycle, fertilization, pregnancy.

Assessment Schedule

Assessment	Date	Coverage	Weight
Class Test 1	07 August 2026	Study Units 1 & 2	20%
Class Test 2 (Semester Test)	01–11 September 2026 (TBC)	Study Units 3 & 4	30%
Class Test 3	12 October 2026	Study Units 5 & 6	20%
Practical Assessments	Weekly (Wednesdays)	Group Assignments	30%
1st Exam Opportunity	28 Oct – 20 Nov 2026	Study Units 1–6	100 marks
2nd Exam Opportunity	23 Nov – 04 Dec 2026	Study Units 1–6	100 marks

Key Academic Dates

• Class Test 1: 07 August 2026

• Class Test 2 (Semester Test): 01–11 September 2026 (TBC)

• Class Test 3: 12 October 2026

• 1st Exam Opportunity: 28 October – 20 November 2026

• 2nd Exam Opportunity: 23 November – 04 December 2026

• University Recess: 24 September – 02 October 2026

Lecturers

• Dr. M.N. Motsaanaka (MC)

• Dr. B. Scrooby (PC)

Additional Info

• All assessments are sit-down (in-person) unless otherwise communicated.

• Group assignments are an integral part of practical learning and contribute significantly to the final mark.

• Revision sessions are scheduled before exams to consolidate learning across all study units.