Anatomy & Physiology Syllabus Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure, expectations, and academic policies for the Anatomy & Physiology course at South Kent School for the 2026-2027 academic year. The course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the human body, its systems, and physiological processes, preparing them for advanced studies in health and science fields.

Course Description

• Focus: In-depth study of human anatomy and physiology, emphasizing conceptual understanding over advanced mathematics.

• Target Students: Upperform students with prior biology (and typically chemistry) experience, especially those interested in pre-med or health-related fields.

• Learning Methods: Laboratory work, dissections, case studies, and applied learning.

• Goal: Develop foundational knowledge for advanced science coursework and health professions.

Required Texts/Materials

• E-text available through Pearson+

Course Outline

The course is organized into five major units, each covering essential topics in human anatomy and physiology:

• Unit 1: Organization & Tissues

  • Structural hierarchy of the human body

  • Anatomical terminology

  • Basic biochemistry and cellular transport

  • Histology (study of tissues)

• Unit 2: Support & Movement

  • Integumentary system (skin and related structures)

  • Skeletal system (bones and joints)

  • Muscular system (muscle tissue and movement)

• Unit 3: Integration & Control

  • Nervous system (central and peripheral)

  • Endocrine system (hormonal regulation)

  • Mechanisms for sensing, processing, and responding to environmental changes

• Unit 4: Circulation & Maintenance

  • Cardiovascular system (heart and blood vessels)

  • Lymphatic and immune systems (defense and fluid balance)

  • Respiratory, digestive, and urinary systems (material transport and homeostasis)

• Unit 5: Reproduction

  • Male and female reproductive systems

  • Gamete production

  • Hormonal regulation of reproduction and development

Grading Breakdown

Course Policies

Tardiness and Attendance

• Timeliness is essential; students must arrive on time.

• Three tardies equal one unexcused absence; 20+ minutes late is an unexcused absence.

• Unexcused absences over 20% may result in loss of course credit.

Academic Eligibility for Athletics

• Students missing assignments or falling below a C- may be placed in study hall and barred from athletic participation for at least one week.

Honors Designation

• Two pathways: Independent Project or Adjusted Assessments (honors-level work with an average of 85%+).

• Contact the classroom teacher and Dean of Faculty for more information.

Late and Missing Work

• Assignments must be submitted on time; late work may receive a zero and may not be eligible for revision.

• Excused absences may allow for adjusted deadlines.

Revision Policy

• Only summative assessments submitted on time and earning less than an A (93-100) can be revised (one revision per assignment).

• Students must demonstrate effort (office hours, remedial instruction, reflection).

• Corrections can earn up to 50% of lost points back.

Technology in the Classroom

• Technology use is at the instructor's discretion; phones are collected at the start of class.

• Exceptions for emergencies or learning purposes only.

Academic Integrity

• All work must be original; plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

• Plagiarism includes copying or rewording without citation, including AI-generated text.

• Cheating includes unauthorized collaboration or submitting the same work for multiple classes without permission.

• Violations are reported and carry escalating consequences, from warnings to possible suspension or dismissal.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy

• AI use is fully prohibited unless prior authorization is given by the instructor.

• If AI is used, it must be disclosed and cited according to MLA, APA, or Chicago style guidelines.

Use of Class Materials and Recordings

• Class materials are the intellectual property of the instructor and may not be shared without permission.

Food and Drink Policy

• No food allowed in STEM classrooms; drinks must be securely sealed and are not allowed during lab periods.

Summary Table: Course Units and Major Topics

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive framework for the study of human anatomy and physiology, aligning with standard college-level introductory courses and preparing students for further study in biological and health sciences.