Anatomy and Physiology I – Laboratory

Course Overview

This course provides an integrated approach to the study of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on laboratory investigations and practical applications. Students will explore the structure and function of the human body, with emphasis on cells, tissues, organ systems, and physiological processes.

• Course Code: BIO211

• Credits: 4 (combined lecture and lab)

• Instructor: Matthew Gosses

• Textbooks:

  • Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory Manual, 3rd Edition, Mika, Thomas, et al.

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology, 2nd Edition, Amerman, Erin C.

Catalog Description

The laboratory course centers on the human body, discussing life functions necessary for survival and protection. Students will investigate the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems, and relate these to physiological processes. The skeletal system provides the basis for understanding support and movement, while the muscular system is essential for movement and stability.

Course Objectives

• Provide students in Health Technologies with a basic life sciences foundation.

• Describe life functions that power, support, and move the human body.

• Prepare students to read and study science.

• Prepare students to utilize knowledge in health technology careers.

Laboratory Objectives

• Reinforce lecture topics such as cells, tissues, DNA isolation, osmosis and diffusion, skeletal system, muscular system, and nervous system (including the brain, CNS, and PNS).

• Help students identify, locate, and describe the parts of the human anatomy.

• Understand the function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.

• Give students the skills to identify and describe the principles of chemistry involved in physiological processes.

Laboratory Student Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate understanding of anatomical terminology and identification of major body structures.

• Apply scientific reasoning to laboratory investigations.

• Communicate laboratory findings effectively.

Course Rules and Safety

Attendance

• Attendance is mandatory; late arrival may result in being marked absent.

• Students must submit information forms for each laboratory session.

Safety

• No eating, drinking, or smoking in the laboratory.

• Proper attire required: lab coats, safety goggles, closed-toe shoes.

• Safety goggles must be worn during experiments.

• No unauthorized persons allowed in the laboratory.

Student Responsibilities

• Read assigned material and keep a laboratory notebook.

• Participate in each activity and clean up after use.

Grading Summary

Note: The lowest laboratory report or question set score will be dropped from the final total.

To pass the course, a student must have no fewer than 180 points (60%) in the laboratory portion.

Exams and Assessments

Exam Format

• Exams include fill-in-the-blank, matching, short essay, practical stations, and multiple-choice questions.

• Timed-station format: students rotate through stations to answer questions on anatomical models, diagrams, and specimens.

• Questions may require identification, explanation, or application of anatomical concepts.

Reports

• Reports require a written summary of laboratory activities, including introduction, results, and conclusion.

• Results section must include observations and data from experiments.

• Conclusion should summarize the main principles and concepts learned.

Key Topics Covered

• Cell Chemistry & Cell Components: Structure and function of cells, organelles, and chemical processes essential for life.

• Tissues & Histology: Identification and classification of major tissue types (epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous).

• Integumentary System: Structure and function of skin, hair, nails, and associated glands.

• Bones & Skeletal Tissue: Anatomy of bones, bone tissue, and skeletal system organization.

• Joints & Muscles: Types of joints, muscle tissue structure, and mechanisms of movement.

• Nervous System: Organization of the central and peripheral nervous systems, including brain and spinal cord anatomy.

Example: Diffusion and Osmosis

Diffusion and osmosis are key processes studied in the laboratory. Diffusion is the movement of molecules from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Osmosis is the diffusion of water across a selectively permeable membrane.

• Diffusion Equation:

• Osmosis: Water moves to balance solute concentrations across membranes.

Academic Support and Policies

• Disability Services and tutoring are available for students needing assistance.

• Students must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct and policies on discrimination and harassment.

• Use of AI tools is permitted with proper citation and explanation of use.

Additional Info

• Laboratory sessions reinforce lecture material and provide hands-on experience.

• Students are expected to demonstrate safety, responsibility, and scientific integrity.