Course Overview

Introduction to Medical Terminology

This course provides a systematic approach to scientific terminology, preparing students for careers in healthcare. The focus is on understanding and using medical terms accurately, including the breakdown of terms into prefixes, roots, and suffixes. Mastery of medical terminology is essential for clear communication, accurate documentation, and professional success in healthcare settings.

• Key Point 1: Medical terminology is the language used by healthcare professionals to describe the human body, its conditions, processes, and procedures.

• Key Point 2: Understanding word elements (prefix, root, suffix) is fundamental to interpreting and constructing medical terms.

• Example: The term cardiology can be broken down into cardi- (heart) and -ology (study of).

Course Structure and Requirements

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Describe how word elements work together to create specific medical terms.

• Combine word elements and use appropriate spelling of medical terms.

• Recall terminology for a wide range of body systems.

• Explain terms describing positions, directions, and planes of the body.

• Locate words in the dictionary based on phonetic spelling.

• Pronounce and define healthcare and medical terms.

Required Textbooks and Materials

• Textbook: Medical Language: Immerse Yourself, 6th Edition by Susan M. Turley (Pearson Education, 2023)

• Digital Course Materials: Pearson MyLab Medical Terminology

Course Policies and Expectations

Attendance and Participation

Regular attendance and active participation are required for both in-person and online components. Attendance is measured by timely submission of coursework, not just logging in. Professional behavior, punctuality, and accountability are expected.

• Weekly In-Person Quiz: Administered every Wednesday during class.

• No Make-Up Quizzes or Exams: Missed assessments cannot be made up unless prior approval is granted.

• Time Commitment: Plan to spend 6–9 hours per week outside of class.

Grading and Assessment

Grades are based on assignments, quizzes, and exams. Assessments are completed via Canvas (Eagle Online), in-person, and Pearson's MyLabs.

• Assignments: 30% of final grade

• Quizzes: 25% of final grade

• Exams: 45% of final grade

Late Work and Extra Credit

• Late Work: 25% penalty if submitted within 24 hours; 50% penalty after 24 hours.

• Extra Credit: Offered at instructor's discretion to the entire class.

Support and Resources

Tutoring and Writing Assistance

FVCC offers STEM Tutoring Center and Writing Lab for academic support. Services include help with English skills, research papers, and writing formats.

• STEM Tutoring Center: Support for math and science courses.

• Writing Lab: Assistance with grammar, research papers, and writing formats.

Disability Access and Equity

FVCC provides reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities and is committed to an inclusive environment free from harassment and discrimination.

Professionalism and Academic Integrity

Code of Conduct

Students must adhere to the Code of Student Conduct and Academic Integrity Policy. Academic dishonesty will result in disciplinary action, including possible withdrawal or failing grade.

• Respectful communication and netiquette are required in all interactions.

• Harassment and offensive behavior are not tolerated.

Important Dates

Summary

This syllabus provides essential information for success in AHMS 144 Medical Terminology. Students are expected to master medical language, adhere to professional standards, and utilize available resources for academic support. The course prepares students for further study and careers in healthcare by building a strong foundation in medical terminology.