Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology I

This course provides an integrated approach to the study of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the relationship between structure and function in the human body. Students will explore the organization of the body, cellular and tissue structure, and the physiological processes that maintain homeostasis.

• Course Name: Anatomy and Physiology I – Lecture

• Program Name: Biology

• Credits: 4 (Lecture and Laboratory combined)

• Textbook: Human Anatomy and Physiology, 3rd Edition, Amerman, Erin C., Pearson Education, 2024

• Instructor: Rachel K. Prokopius, Ph.D.

Course Objectives

General Course Information

The course is designed for students in Health Technologies and related fields, providing foundational knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. The objectives include:

• Describing the life functions that support, move, and protect the human body.

• Identifying and explaining the structure and function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems.

• Applying knowledge to critical thinking in health-related scenarios.

Required Materials

Textbooks and Supplies

• Textbook: Human Anatomy and Physiology, 3rd Edition, Amerman, Erin C.

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

• Lab Supplies: Disposable gloves for laboratory work.

Additional materials may be provided through the college's e-Campus platform.

Student Learning Outcomes

Lecture Outcomes

Students are expected to achieve the following outcomes, assessed through quizzes and exams:

• Identify and understand body plan and organization of human anatomy.

• Define and describe structural levels of organization in the human body.

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

• Describe core principles in anatomy and physiology, including homeostasis and feedback loops.

• Explain basic principles of chemistry and physics as they relate to body function.

• Identify major organic compounds and their functions.

• Describe the cell cycle and cellular transport mechanisms.

• Describe the structure and function of the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems.

• Explain the organization and function of the central and peripheral nervous systems.

• Describe sensory systems and special senses.

Laboratory Outcomes

Laboratory assessments focus on practical understanding and identification:

• Identify body plan and organization.

• Identify basic organic compounds and their impact in the body.

• Know the function of the cell and its organelles.

• Understand osmosis and diffusion.

• Identify tissue types throughout the body.

• Identify major skeletal muscles and bones.

• Understand the organization of the nervous system.

• Identify locations and structures of the nervous system and special senses.

Key Topics and Subtopics

Body Organization and Structural Levels

The human body is organized into hierarchical levels, each with specific functions:

• Cell: The basic unit of life, responsible for carrying out essential functions.

• Tissue: Groups of similar cells performing a common function (e.g., epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous tissue).

• Organ: Structures composed of multiple tissue types working together (e.g., heart, liver).

• Organ System: Groups of organs that perform related functions (e.g., digestive, nervous systems).

Example: The muscular system includes skeletal muscles, tendons, and associated connective tissues, all working to produce movement.

Homeostasis and Feedback Mechanisms

Homeostasis refers to the body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment. Feedback mechanisms regulate physiological processes:

• Negative Feedback: Reduces the effect of a stimulus to maintain equilibrium (e.g., regulation of body temperature).

• Positive Feedback: Enhances the effect of a stimulus (e.g., blood clotting).

Formula:

Cellular Structure and Function

Cells are the fundamental units of life, each containing organelles that perform specific functions:

• Nucleus: Contains genetic material (DNA).

• Mitochondria: Site of ATP production.

• Endoplasmic Reticulum: Synthesizes proteins and lipids.

• Plasma Membrane: Regulates entry and exit of substances.

Example: Muscle cells contain many mitochondria to meet high energy demands.

Chemistry and Physics in Physiology

Chemical and physical principles underlie physiological processes:

• Osmosis: Movement of water across a semipermeable membrane.

• Diffusion: Movement of molecules from high to low concentration.

Formula:

Skeletal System

The skeletal system provides support, protection, and movement:

• Bones: Classified by shape (long, short, flat, irregular).

• Joints: Sites where bones meet, allowing movement.

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

Example: The femur is a long bone that supports body weight and enables movement.

Muscular System

Muscles produce movement and maintain posture:

• Skeletal Muscle: Voluntary movement.

• Cardiac Muscle: Involuntary, found in the heart.

• Smooth Muscle: Involuntary, found in organs.

Formula:

Nervous System

The nervous system coordinates body activities through electrical and chemical signals:

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

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

• Neurons: Specialized cells for transmitting signals.

• Neurotransmitters: Chemicals that transmit signals across synapses.

Example: The reflex arc is a rapid response pathway involving sensory and motor neurons.

Sensory Systems and Special Senses

Sensory systems detect changes in the environment and relay information to the brain:

• Special Senses: Vision, hearing, taste, smell, equilibrium.

• General Senses: Touch, pain, temperature.

Example: Photoreceptors in the retina detect light and enable vision.

Assessment and Grading

Grading Procedure

Grades are based on quizzes, exams, laboratory reports, and participation. Students must achieve at least 60% in both lecture and laboratory components to pass the course.

Additional info: Students must earn at least 180 points (60%) in the laboratory portion to pass.

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance at all lectures and labs is required.

• Active participation through note-taking and answering questions is expected.

• Cheating is not tolerated and will be dealt with according to college policy.

• No extra credit is offered.

Devices and Communication

• Electronic devices must be silenced during class.

• Emails should be sent from official college addresses and follow proper format.

• Instructor will respond to emails within 48 hours during the work week.

Tips for Success

• Attend every lecture and lab.

• Take thorough notes and review regularly.

• Participate actively and ask questions.

• Utilize provided resources, including textbooks, lab manuals, and online materials.

• Respect classroom environment and peers.

Institutional General Education Competency

Summary Table: Major Systems and Functions

Additional info: These notes are based on the syllabus and learning outcomes for Anatomy and Physiology I at Owens Community College, Fall 2025.