Course Overview

Introduction to BI 231Z: Human Anatomy & Physiology

BI 231Z is the first course in a three-term sequence designed for students entering health professions. The course introduces foundational concepts in human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body, including basic chemistry, cells, tissues, the skeletal and muscular systems, and nervous tissue. Emphasis is placed on homeostasis and the interrelationships among body systems.

• Prerequisites: BI 112 (Biology) and MTH 065 (Mathematics)

• Course Format: In-person lectures and laboratories

• Instructor: Dr. Andrea Waite

Learning Outcomes

Core Competencies

Upon successful completion of BI 231Z, students will be able to:

• Explain key homeostatic mechanisms and feedback loops in the integumentary and skeletal systems.

• Describe anatomical structures and their relationships to function in the integumentary, skeletal, muscular systems, and neural tissue.

• Explain key processes of the integumentary, skeletal, and muscular systems and neural signaling.

• Relate levels of biological organization to the functions of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular systems, and neural tissue.

• Describe interactions among the integumentary, skeletal, muscular systems, and neural tissue with other body systems.

• Apply anatomical and physiological concepts to practical scenarios, including clinical and public health issues.

• Identify major structures in tissues, integumentary, skeletal, and muscular systems using laboratory materials.

Required Materials

• Lebsack’s BI 231Z Study Guide: Human Anatomy & Physiology

• Anatomy & Physiology Custom Lab Manual for LBCC

• Four Scantron forms

• Anatomy & Physiology by Marieb & Hoehn, 12th edition (digital access included in tuition)

• Mobile electronic device for Canvas access (laptop or tablet recommended)

Grading Structure

Assessment Categories and Weights

• Final Grade Scale: A = 90–100%; B = 80–89%; C = 70–79%; D = 60–69%; F = 59.9% or below

• Extra Credit: Only available as designated questions on assessments

• Incomplete Policy: Issued only if all coursework except the final exam is complete and a contract is signed

Attendance & Participation

Lecture and Laboratory Expectations

• Attendance is required for both lectures and laboratories.

• In-lecture activities and laboratory participation contribute to the final grade and cannot be made up if missed.

• Students must attend their registered laboratory section and complete at least 7 of 9 lab sessions for a grade of C or better.

• Active participation and timely arrival are required for successful lab completion.

Assignments & Assessments

Types of Assessments

• Prelab Quizzes: Timed, closed-resource quizzes at the start of each lab session.

• Lab Assignments: Due at the end of the lab period or by 11:59 PM the same day via Canvas.

• Weekly Wrap-Up Quizzes: Timed quizzes at the end of most labs, open to handwritten notes only.

• Midterm Exams: Three in-person, multiple-choice exams covering recent material.

• Lab Practica: Four in-person practical exams assessing identification and understanding of anatomical structures.

• Final Exam: Comprehensive, in-person exam at the end of the term.

Dropped Score Policy

• The lowest score is dropped in the prelab quiz, weekly wrap-up quiz, lab activity, and in-lecture activity categories.

• No scores are dropped from midterms, lab practica, or the final exam.

Closed-Resource and Exam Security

• Exams and quizzes are closed-resource unless otherwise specified.

• Students may not keep, copy, or photograph exam questions.

• Academic dishonesty results in a zero and possible further disciplinary action.

Course Technology

Canvas & MyLab and Mastering

• Canvas is used for communication, materials, assignments, and grades.

• MyLab and Mastering access is included in tuition and is required for some assignments.

Electronic Devices

• Devices may be used for course-related activities only.

• Non-course use during lab results in a zero for that session.

Generative AI Policy

• AI tools may be used for brainstorming or outlining assignments, but not for exams or quizzes.

• All submitted work must be the student's own original thinking and writing.

Study Strategies

• Attend all lectures and labs and participate actively.

• Use the study guide to identify key concepts and self-quiz.

• Review material regularly and read the textbook for clarification.

• Draw diagrams and connect new material to previous concepts.

• Form study groups and use campus tutoring resources.

Course Schedule

Tentative Weekly Topics and Readings

Key Topics Covered (by Chapter)

• Ch. 1: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology

• Ch. 2: Basic Chemistry

• Ch. 3: Cells

• Ch. 4: Histology (Tissues)

• Ch. 5: Integumentary System

• Ch. 6: Skeletal Tissue

• Ch. 7: Axial and Appendicular Skeleton

• Ch. 8: Articulations (Joints)

• Ch. 9 & 10: Muscular Tissue and Muscular System

• Ch. 11: Nervous Tissue

Support and Policies

• Accessibility: Accommodations available for documented disabilities; contact instructor and Accessibility Resources.

• Inclusion: Respectful, diverse learning environment is expected and supported.

• Title IX: Support and reporting resources available for sexual misconduct or discrimination.

• Public Safety: Emergency contacts and campus safety resources provided.

• Changes to Syllabus: Minor changes may occur; students will be notified via Canvas or email.

Summary Table: Major Course Components

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to communicate with the instructor regarding academic challenges.

• Regular review and active participation are key to success in this course.