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Anatomy and Physiology I (BIO-101): Course Syllabus and Study Guide

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Anatomy and Physiology I (BIO-101): Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course provides a foundational understanding of human anatomy and physiology, focusing on the structure and function of organs and organ systems. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships among systems, cellular and tissue organization, and laboratory skills including dissection.

  • Credits: 4 (3 lecture, 1 lab)

  • Prerequisites: MAT-016 or MAT-026 or equivalent

  • Textbook: Marieb Human Anatomy & Physiology, 12th ed. (Holben, Kaynes, Abbott)

  • Laboratory Manual: Marieb & Smith, Human Anatomy & Physiology Laboratory Manual, 13th ed.

  • Course Delivery: Online via Blackboard

Course Description

The course introduces the structure and function of the human body, with special emphasis on the relationships between organs and organ systems. Topics include cell biology, tissues, integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. Laboratory work includes dissection and microscopy.

Course Learning Outcomes

  • Use correct anatomical and directional terminology.

  • Describe the fundamental principles of homeostasis, biochemistry, and cellular structure and function.

  • Identify and describe the four basic tissue types and their locations and functions.

  • Describe the anatomy and physiology of the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems at various levels of biological organization.

  • Apply scientific reasoning to conceptual areas of anatomy and physiology, including hypothesis-driven reasoning and data analysis.

Course Content Outline

The following topics are covered in lectures and labs, with corresponding textbook chapters:

  • Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology (Chapter 1)

  • Chemistry (Chapter 2)

  • The Cell (Chapter 3)

  • Tissues (Chapter 4)

  • Integumentary System (Chapter 5)

  • Skeletal System (Chapters 6-8)

  • Muscular System (Chapters 9-10)

  • Nervous System (Chapters 11-15)

Laboratory Topics

  • Lab Safety, Study Skills, Anatomical Terminology, Organ Systems

  • Scientific Method, Microscopy

  • Histology: Epithelial, Muscle, Nervous Tissues

  • Histology: Connective, Integumentary System

  • Skeletal System: Bone Classification, Bone Markings, Skull

  • Skeletal System: Hyoid, Vertebral Column, Thoracic Cage, Pelvic Girdle

  • Skeletal System: Bones of Upper and Lower Limbs

  • Muscle Gross Anatomy (I & II)

  • Nervous System: Sheep Brain Dissection, Eye Dissection

Key Concepts and Definitions

Anatomical Terminology

  • Anatomy: The study of the structure of body parts and their relationships to one another.

  • Physiology: The study of the function of the body’s structural machinery.

  • Directional Terms: Used to describe the locations of structures (e.g., superior, inferior, anterior, posterior, medial, lateral).

  • Planes of the Body: Sagittal, frontal (coronal), and transverse planes.

Cellular and Tissue Organization

  • Cell: The basic structural and functional unit of living organisms.

  • Tissue: Groups of similar cells performing a common function. Four basic types: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.

  • Homeostasis: The maintenance of a stable internal environment.

Major Organ Systems Covered

  • Integumentary System: Skin, hair, nails; protects body, regulates temperature.

  • Skeletal System: Bones, cartilage, ligaments; supports and protects organs, stores minerals, produces blood cells.

  • Muscular System: Skeletal muscles; enables movement, maintains posture, produces heat.

  • Nervous System: Brain, spinal cord, nerves; controls body responses, processes sensory information.

Grading and Assessment

  • Lecture Average (75% of final grade):

    • Non-comprehensive lecture exams: 50%

    • Departmental Comprehensive Final Exam: 20%

    • Lecture Assignments (MAP, quizzes, case studies): 5%

    • Recitation: 5%

  • Laboratory Average (25% of final grade):

    • Lab practical exams: 75%

    • Lab assignments/quizzes: 25%

  • Attendance: Required for all labs and recitations. Missing more than 15% of scheduled activities results in a lower grade.

Grading Scale

Letter Grade

Numerical Average

GPA Quality Points

A

93.0 – 100.0

4.00

A-

90.0 – 92.9

3.67

B+

87.0 – 89.9

3.33

B

83.0 – 86.9

3.00

B-

80.0 – 82.9

2.67

C+

77.0 – 79.9

2.33

C

70.0 – 76.9

2.00

D

60.0 – 69.9

1.00

F

≤ 59.9

0.00

Policies and Expectations

  • Academic Integrity: Cheating, plagiarism, and other forms of dishonesty are strictly prohibited and may result in a grade of zero or further disciplinary action.

  • Attendance: Required for all labs and recitations; excessive absences may result in course failure.

  • Student Performance Improvement Plan: Students at risk of failing may be required to participate in a performance improvement plan, including regular meetings and tutoring.

Technical and Laboratory Requirements

  • Internet Access: High-speed connection required.

  • Device: Windows/Mac computer, webcam, microphone.

  • Lab Kit: County College of Morris BIO 101 Laboratory Kit (if required).

Summary Table: Major Organ Systems and Functions

Organ System

Main Components

Primary Functions

Integumentary

Skin, hair, nails

Protection, temperature regulation, sensation

Skeletal

Bones, cartilage, ligaments

Support, movement, mineral storage, blood cell production

Muscular

Skeletal muscles

Movement, posture, heat production

Nervous

Brain, spinal cord, nerves

Control, coordination, sensory processing

Key Formulas and Concepts

  • Homeostasis Equation: The body maintains homeostasis through feedback mechanisms, often described as:

  • Directional Terms Example: The heart is medial to the lungs and superior to the liver.

Study Tips

  • Review anatomical terminology and practice labeling diagrams.

  • Use flashcards for tissue types and organ system functions.

  • Attend all labs and participate actively in dissections and microscopy.

  • Form study groups to discuss complex physiological processes.

Additional info: This guide is based on the official course syllabus and is intended to provide a structured overview for exam preparation and laboratory success.

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