Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology I

This course provides a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body. It is designed for students pursuing health-related fields and covers major body systems, their components, and physiological processes.

• Course Code: BIO 2630

• Credits: 4

• Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on the OCC Biology Placement Test or completion of BIO 1510 or BIO 1530 (or equivalent college transfer courses).

• Required Materials: Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th edition by Elaine N. Marieb (Pearson), online homework platform Mastering A&P, Scantrons for exams.

Course Objectives

Learning Outcomes

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

• Correlate the relationship between structure and function in body systems.

• Use anatomical and physiological terms appropriately.

• Recognize interrelationships between molecular, cellular, tissue, and organ levels in body systems.

• Identify major anatomical structures in body systems.

• Describe the development of tissues and organs.

• Distinguish between parasympathetic and sympathetic effects on body systems.

• Describe and explain the impacts of physiological processes.

Course Structure

Lecture and Lab Schedule

• Lecture: M/W 6:00 PM - 7:20 PM

• Lab: M/W 7:30 PM - 8:50 PM

• Location: J Building - Tirrell Hall, J292 (Lecture); C Building, C208 Lab (Lab)

Topics Covered

• Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

• Cellular structure and function

• Tissues and histology

• Skeletal system

• Muscular system

• Nervous system (Central and Peripheral)

• Special senses

• Homeostasis and physiological regulation

Required Assignments and Assessments

Grading Breakdown

Major Course Topics

Structure and Function in Body Systems

Understanding the relationship between anatomical structures and their physiological functions is central to anatomy and physiology. For example, the structure of the alveoli in the lungs maximizes gas exchange efficiency.

• Structure: The physical organization of cells, tissues, and organs.

• Function: The role each structure plays in maintaining homeostasis.

• Example: The heart's muscular walls (structure) enable it to pump blood (function) throughout the body.

Levels of Organization

The human body is organized into hierarchical levels:

• Chemical Level: Atoms and molecules essential for life.

• Cellular Level: Cells are the basic units of life.

• Tissue Level: Groups of similar cells performing specific functions.

• Organ Level: Structures composed of multiple tissue types.

• Organ System Level: Groups of organs working together.

• Organism Level: The complete living being.

Homeostasis

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

• Key Components: Receptors, control center, effectors.

• Example: Regulation of body temperature.

• Formula:

Histology

Histology is the study of tissues. Four primary tissue types are found in the human body:

• 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.

Skeletal System

The skeletal system provides structural support, protection, and enables movement.

• Major Components: Bones, cartilage, ligaments.

• Functions: Support, protection, movement, mineral storage, blood cell production.

• Example: The femur supports body weight and enables walking.

Muscular System

The muscular system is responsible for movement, posture, and heat production.

• Types of Muscle: Skeletal, cardiac, smooth.

• Function: Contraction to produce movement.

• Example: Biceps brachii contracts to flex the forearm.

Nervous System

The nervous system coordinates body activities by transmitting signals between different body parts.

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Nerves outside the CNS.

• Functions: Sensory input, integration, motor output.

• Example: Reflex actions are mediated by the spinal cord.

Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary body functions such as heart rate and digestion.

• Divisions: Sympathetic (fight or flight) and Parasympathetic (rest and digest).

• Example: Increased heart rate during stress (sympathetic response).

Special Senses

Special senses include vision, hearing, taste, smell, and equilibrium.

• Structures: Eyes, ears, tongue, nose, vestibular apparatus.

• Function: Detection and interpretation of environmental stimuli.

• Example: The retina detects light and initiates visual processing.

Laboratory Component

Lab Activities and Models

Laboratory sessions reinforce lecture concepts through hands-on activities and model examination.

• Microscope slides

• Histology slides

• Articulated/disarticulated skeletons

• Muscle and brain models

• Spinal cord and sensory receptor models

• Eye and ear models

Assessment Policies

Exams and Quizzes

• Lecture exams cover multiple chapters and include practical components.

• Lab practicals require identification of anatomical structures from models, slides, and images.

• Quizzes and homework are completed online via D2L and Mastering A&P.

• Optional cumulative final exam may be substituted for the lowest exam score.

Attendance and Conduct

Policies

• Attendance is mandatory for both lecture and lab.

• At least 70% lab attendance is required to pass.

• No food or drink allowed in the laboratory.

• Professional conduct and mutual respect are expected.

• Electronic devices should not disrupt class.

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to use campus resources such as the Academic Support Center and library.

• All course materials and assignments are accessed via D2L.

• Scantrons and Mastering A&P access are required for assessments.

Additional info: This guide expands on the course syllabus and policies to provide a structured overview suitable for exam preparation and foundational study in Anatomy & Physiology I.