Anatomy & Physiology I: Course Syllabus Overview

This document outlines the weekly schedule, topics, homework assignments, and laboratory activities for a college-level Anatomy & Physiology I course. The syllabus is organized by week, providing a structured approach to the study of human anatomy and physiology, with a focus on foundational concepts, tissues, organ systems, and laboratory skills.

Course Structure and Organization

• Weekly Topics: Each week covers specific chapters and themes, progressing from basic chemistry and cell biology to tissues and major organ systems.

• Homework Assignments: Regular homework is assigned from the textbook chapters to reinforce learning.

• Laboratory Sessions: Labs are integrated to provide hands-on experience with microscopy, tissues, and anatomical structures.

• Breaks and Holidays: The schedule includes academic breaks and holidays, with adjustments to the pacing of content.

Weekly Topics and Key Content Areas

1. Introduction, Chemistry, and Cells

• Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology: Overview of the course, laboratory safety, and the scientific method.

• Basic Chemistry (Ch. 2): Atoms, molecules, chemical bonds, and reactions relevant to biological systems.

• Cells (Ch. 3 & 4): Structure and function of the cell, cell membrane, organelles, and cellular processes.

• Laboratory: Microscopy, introduction to A&P, and cell observation.

2. Tissues and Integumentary System

• Tissues (Ch. 5): Classification and function of epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.

• Integumentary System (Ch. 6): Structure and function of the skin, hair, nails, and associated glands.

• Laboratory: Tissue types, histology, and practical identification.

3. Skeletal System

• Bone Tissue (Ch. 7): Composition, structure, and function of bone; bone development and growth.

• Axial and Appendicular Skeleton (Ch. 8 & 9): Identification and function of bones in the axial and appendicular skeleton.

• Laboratory: Skeletal system identification and practicals.

4. Articulations and Muscular System

• Joints (Ch. 9): Classification of joints, structure, and function.

• Muscle Tissue (Ch. 10): Types of muscle tissue, structure, and mechanisms of contraction.

• Muscular System (Ch. 11): Major muscle groups, actions, and anatomical features.

• Laboratory: Muscular system identification and function.

5. Nervous System

• Nervous Tissue (Ch. 12): Structure and function of neurons and neuroglia, nerve impulse transmission.

• Spinal Cord and Spinal Nerves (Ch. 13): Anatomy and physiology of the spinal cord and peripheral nerves.

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

• Laboratory: Nervous system identification and practicals.

6. Special Senses

• Special Senses (Ch. 17): Anatomy and physiology of the senses, including vision, hearing, taste, and smell.

Sample Weekly Schedule Table

Key Terms and Concepts

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body.

• Histology: The study of tissues at the microscopic level.

• Osteology: The study of the structure and function of bones.

• Neuroanatomy: The study of the structure and organization of the nervous system.

Additional info:

• This syllabus provides a week-by-week guide to the major topics in Anatomy & Physiology I, including both lecture and laboratory components. Students are expected to complete readings and homework assignments prior to each class and lab session.

• Laboratory practicals are scheduled to assess hands-on skills and anatomical identification.