BackBIO 60 - Human Biology: Course Syllabus and Weekly Topic Overview
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Course Overview
This syllabus outlines the weekly schedule and major topics for BIO 60 - Human Biology, covering foundational concepts in human anatomy, physiology, and biological principles. The course is structured to guide students through the major systems of the human body, integrating chemistry, cell biology, and organ system function.
Weekly Topics and Chapters
Week | Dates | Lecture Topics | Chapters | Assignments/Exams |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 2/9-2/12 | Introduction to Human Biology, Anatomy & Physiology | Chapter 1 | Discussion Entry, Syllabus Quiz, Presentation Sign-up (Due 2/14) |
2 | 2/15-2/21 | Metabolism and Nutrition | Chapter 2 | CH1 & CH2 DSM (Due 2/20, extended to 2/27) |
3 | 2/22-2/28 | The Cell; Body Organization and Homeostasis; Tissues | Chapters 3 & 4 | CH3 & CH4 DSM (Due 2/27) |
4 | 3/1-3/7 | Skeletal System and Joints | Chapter 5 | CH5 DSM (Due 3/6) |
5 | 3/8-3/14 | Muscular System | Chapter 6 | CH5 DSM (Due 3/6); Module 1 Presentations (3/13) |
6 | 3/15-3/21 | Midterm/Lecture Exam 1 (Ch. 1,2,3,5,6) | - | Worksheet 1 & Study Guide 1 (Due 3/15); Exam 1 (3/16-3/20) |
7 | 3/22-3/28 | Endocrine System; Blood | Chapters 10 & 11 | CH10 & CH11 DSM (Due 3/27) |
8 | 3/29-4/4 | Cardiovascular and Lymphatic System | Chapter 12 | CH12 DSM (Due 4/3) |
9 | 4/12-4/18 | Respiratory System | Chapter 14 | CH14 DSM (Due 4/17) |
10 | 4/19-4/25 | Digestive System and Nutrition | Chapter 15 | CH15 DSM (Due 4/24); Module 2 Presentations (4/24) |
11 | 4/26-5/2 | Midterm/Lecture Exam 2 | - | Worksheet 2 & Study Guide 2 (Due 4/26); Exam 2 (4/27-5/1) |
12 | 5/3-5/9 | Nervous System; Sensory Systems | Chapters 8 & 9 | CH8 & CH9 DSM (Due 5/8) |
13 | 5/10-5/16 | Body Defense Mechanisms; Infectious Diseases | Chapter 13 | CH13 DSM (Due 5/15) |
14 | 5/17-5/23 | Urinary System | Chapter 16 | CH16 DSM (Due 5/22) |
15 | 5/24-5/30 | Reproductive Systems | Chapter 17 | CH17 DSM (Due 5/29); Module 3 Presentations (5/29) |
16 | 5/31-6/6 | Final Exam | - | Worksheet 3 & Study Guide 3 (Due 5/31); Final Exam (6/1-6/5) |
Major Topics Covered
Humans in the World of Biology: Introduction to the scope of human biology, scientific method, and the relationship between anatomy and physiology.
Chemistry Comes to Life: Basic chemistry concepts, metabolism, and nutrition as they relate to human biology.
The Cell: Structure and function of cells, cellular processes, and the importance of homeostasis.
Body Organization and Homeostasis: Levels of biological organization, tissue types, and mechanisms maintaining internal balance.
The Skeletal and Muscular Systems: Structure and function of bones, joints, and muscles; movement and support.
The Endocrine System: Hormone regulation and the role of glands in homeostasis.
Blood, Cardiovascular, and Lymphatic Systems: Circulation, heart function, blood vessels, and immune system components.
The Respiratory System: Gas exchange, respiratory anatomy, and physiology.
The Digestive System and Nutrition: Digestion, absorption, and the role of nutrients in health.
The Nervous System and Sensory Systems: Central and peripheral nervous systems, sensory organs, and perception.
Body Defense Mechanisms: Immune responses and infectious diseases.
The Urinary System: Excretion, kidney function, and fluid balance.
Reproductive Systems: Human reproduction, anatomy, and physiology of male and female systems.
Assignments and Exams
Discussion Entries, Quizzes, and Presentations: Regular participation and presentations are required throughout the course.
DSM Assignments: Chapter-specific assignments due most weeks to reinforce learning.
Worksheets and Study Guides: Due at the end of each exam week to prepare for major assessments.
Exams: Three major exams (two midterms and a final) covering cumulative content.
Important Policies
All assignments are due by 11:59 PM on the specified dates.
Late submissions are not accepted.
Plan ahead for exam windows and assignment deadlines.
Additional Info
This syllabus provides a roadmap for the semester, ensuring coverage of all major human biology topics relevant to introductory college-level study.
Students are encouraged to review each chapter before lectures and complete all assignments on time for optimal success.
