Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology I

This course provides an integrated approach to life science, focusing on the human body’s structure and function. Students will explore the organization of the body, physiological processes, and the principles underlying homeostasis. The course combines lecture and laboratory experiences to reinforce key concepts.

• Course Name: Anatomy and Physiology I – Lecture

• Credits: 4 credits (lecture and laboratory)

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

• Instructor: Dr. Lydia-Ann Ghumien, Ph.D.

Course Objectives

Core Learning Goals

Students will develop foundational knowledge in anatomy and physiology, including the following objectives:

• Describe the structure and function of the human body at multiple levels of organization.

• Explain physiological mechanisms that maintain homeostasis.

• Apply scientific reasoning and critical thinking to solve problems in human biology.

• Communicate effectively about scientific concepts.

Major Topics and Subtopics

Body Organization and Homeostasis

Understanding the human body’s organization is essential for studying anatomy and physiology. The body is organized into hierarchical levels, each with specific functions.

• Levels of Organization: Chemical, cellular, tissue, organ, organ system, organism.

• Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment through feedback loops and regulatory mechanisms.

• Example: Regulation of body temperature via negative feedback.

Principles of Physics and Chemistry in Physiology

Basic physical and chemical principles underlie physiological processes.

• Diffusion and Osmosis: Movement of molecules across membranes.

• Transport Mechanisms: Passive (diffusion, osmosis) and active (pumps, carriers).

• Example: Sodium-potassium pump ( ATPase) maintains cellular ion gradients.

Cells, Tissues, and Organs

The cell is the basic unit of life, and tissues are groups of similar cells performing specific functions.

• Cell Structure: Nucleus, cytoplasm, organelles (mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, etc.).

• Tissue Types: Epithelial, connective, muscle, nervous.

• Example: Epithelial tissue lines body surfaces and cavities.

The Skeletal System

The skeletal system provides support, protection, and movement for the body.

• Bone Classification: Long, short, flat, irregular bones.

• Bone Structure: Compact and spongy bone, bone marrow.

• Microscopic Components: Osteons, lamellae, canaliculi.

• Example: The femur is a long bone supporting weight and movement.

The Muscular System

Muscles are responsible for movement, posture, and heat production.

• Muscle Types: Skeletal, cardiac, smooth.

• Contraction Mechanism: Sliding filament theory ( and interaction).

• Example: Skeletal muscles contract to move bones at joints.

The 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 and ganglia outside the CNS.

• Neurons: Specialized cells for signal transmission.

• Example: Sensory neurons transmit information from the skin to the brain.

Special Senses and Integration

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

• Receptors: Structures that detect stimuli (photoreceptors, mechanoreceptors, etc.).

• Integration: Processing of sensory information in the brain.

• Example: The retina contains photoreceptors for vision.

Assessment and Grading

Evaluation Methods

Student performance is assessed through quizzes, exams, laboratory reports, and homework assignments.

• Lecture Quizzes: 4 quizzes, 25 points each

• Lecture Exams: 4 exams, 100 points each

• Laboratory Exams: 4 exams, 50 points each

• Laboratory Reports: 11 reports, 10 points each (lowest score dropped)

• Lecture Homework: 3 assignments, 25 points each

Total Points Possible: 875

Key Student Learning Outcomes

Lecture Outcomes

• Identify and understand body plan and organization

• Define structural levels and relate them to function

• Examine functions of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems

• Describe principles of homeostasis

• Apply physics and chemistry to physiological processes

• Understand transport mechanisms (active/passive)

• Describe structure and function of integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems

• Explain sensory integration and special senses

Laboratory Outcomes

• Identify body plan and major organs

• Recognize cell organelles and their functions

• Understand osmosis and diffusion

• Classify tissue types

• Identify skeletal muscles and nervous system structures

Course Policies and Support

Attendance and Devices

• Attendance is required; most exam material is from lecture notes.

• Electronic devices must be silenced during exams; calculators only as permitted.

Academic Support

• Library and tutoring resources are available.

• Inclusive Access materials provided for required texts.

Additional Info

• LockDown Browser required for online exams.

• General Education competencies include scientific reasoning and communication.