Course Overview

Introduction to BIO137: Human Anatomy and Physiology I with Lab

This course provides a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the interrelationship of structure and function across body systems. The first semester covers basic chemistry, cell structure and physiology, metabolism, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Both lecture and laboratory components are included to reinforce theoretical knowledge with practical application.

• Lecture: 3 credits (online)

• Laboratory: 1 credit (in-person)

• Prerequisites: Placement scores or completion of developmental courses, or instructor consent

Course Learning Outcomes

• Explain basic inorganic and organic chemistry principles as they apply to physiological processes.

• Describe basic cell structure and physiology.

• Describe the structure and function of major tissue types.

• Recognize the complementarity of structure and function.

• Describe the basic metabolic processes of organ systems.

• Explain the interrelationships between organ systems and physiological processes.

• Explain the major homeostatic mechanisms in each body system in response to internal and external environmental changes.

• Explain the physiological and anatomical mechanisms of common dysfunctions.

Course Structure and Topics

Lecture Modules

The course is divided into five main lecture modules, each covering specific chapters and topics:

• Module 1: Introduction to Anatomy, Physiology, and Chemistry

• Module 2: Cell Biology and Tissues

• Module 3: Integumentary and Skeletal Systems

• Module 4: Nervous and Muscle Tissue

• Module 5: Nervous and Sensory Systems

Each module includes video lectures, homework assignments, quizzes, and exams. The final exam is cumulative, covering all modules.

Laboratory Modules

The laboratory component consists of five lab modules, each containing two lab exercises. These exercises reinforce lecture content through hands-on activities, model identification, and practical assessments.

• Lab Exercises 1-2: Introduction, Chemistry, and Transport Mechanisms

• Lab Exercises 3-4: Microscopy, Cell Anatomy, Epithelial Tissue, and Skin Histology

• Lab Exercises 5-6: Connective Tissue, Skeletal System (Axial and Appendicular)

• Lab Exercises 7-8: Articulations, Excitable Tissue Physiology

• Lab Exercises 9-10: Nervous System Anatomy, Reflexes, and Sensory Organs

Grading and Assessment

Lecture Graded Components

• START HERE Syllabus Assignment: 20 points

• Discussion Post: 5 points

• Homework Assignments: 17 assignments at 10 points each (15 best scores kept)

• Lecture Module Quizzes: 5 quizzes at 25 points each

• Lecture Module Exams: 5 exams at 50 points each

• Final Exam: 200 points (cumulative)

Lab Graded Components

• Lab Exercises: 10 exercises at 5 points each

• Lab Quizzes: 6 quizzes at 10 points each

• Lab Practicals: 4 practicals at 50 points each

Grade Calculation

1. Calculate lecture percentage: (Lecture points earned / Lecture points possible) × 100

2. Calculate lab percentage: (Lab points earned / Lab points possible) × 100

3. Course percentage: (Lecture percentage × 3 + Lab percentage) / 4

Grading Scale: A = 89.5–100%, B = 79.5–89.4%, C = 69.5–79.4%, D = 59.5–69.4%, E = 0–59.4%

Course Policies and Expectations

Attendance

• Lecture attendance is tracked via online video viewing.

• Lab attendance is based on completion of lab exercises and practical exams.

• Missing 20% or more of lab sessions results in automatic course failure.

Technology Requirements

• Reliable internet access

• Computer or laptop (mobile devices not sufficient)

• Webcam and microphone

• Respondus Lockdown Browser® for proctored assessments

Textbook and Materials

• Textbook: Marieb’s Human Anatomy & Physiology (12th edition, Pearson Publishing; eText included in course fee)

• Lab Manual: BIO137 Online Lab Manual (provided in Blackboard)

Academic Integrity

Students are expected to adhere to the KCTCS Code of Student Conduct and BCTC Academic Integrity Policy. Plagiarism, academic dishonesty, and misuse of AI are strictly prohibited.

Accommodations and Resources

• Student Accessibility Services (SAS) provides accommodations for students with disabilities.

• Various academic and personal support resources are available through BCTC.

Course Schedule Highlights

The course follows a week-by-week schedule, with each week dedicated to specific topics and assessments. Key topics align with standard Anatomy & Physiology chapters, including:

• Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology

• Chemistry of Life

• Cell Structure and Function

• Tissues and Histology

• Integumentary System

• Skeletal System

• Muscle and Nervous Tissue

• Nervous and Sensory Systems

Assessments include quizzes, exams, lab practicals, and homework assignments, with due dates specified in the course calendar.

Summary Table: Major Graded Components

Additional info:

• This syllabus aligns closely with the standard Anatomy & Physiology curriculum, covering all foundational chapters listed in the reference outline.

• Students must pass both lecture and lab components to pass the course (Dual-Pass Policy).

• Strict attendance and assignment submission policies are enforced to ensure academic success.