Course Overview

Introduction to Medical Terminology

This course, ALHS 1090 – Medical Terminology, provides foundational knowledge in medical terminology, focusing on the structure and function of the human body. Students will learn to construct, define, and apply medical terms, as well as understand the organization and coordination of body systems in health and disease.

• Course Code: ALHS 1090

• Credit Hours: 2

• Contact Hours: 30

• Delivery: Online only

• Required Textbook: Medical Terminology Complete with MyMedicalTerminologyLab AND Pearson e-text - Access Card Package, 4/E

Course Objectives

• Explain the derivation of medical terms, including word roots, prefixes, and suffixes.

• Describe the conventions of combining morphemes and forming plurals.

• Pronounce and spell basic medical terms accurately.

• Identify adjective and noun endings using suffixes.

• Recognize prefixes related to position, color, number, measurement, negation, and direction.

• Interpret basic medical abbreviations and symbols.

• Utilize diagnostic, surgical, and procedural terms relevant to all eleven body systems.

Competency Areas

• General Plan and Function of the Human Body

• Integumentary System

• Skeletal System

• Muscular System

• Nervous and Sensory Systems

• Endocrine System

• Cardiovascular System

• Lymphatic System

• Respiratory System

• Digestive System

• Urinary System

• Reproductive System

Instructional Methods

• All assignments and exams are completed in Blackboard.

• Seven learning modules, each with PowerPoints, assignments, and an exam.

• Final exam in a separate module.

• Supplemental resources: lecture notes, independent reading, multimedia presentations, and videos.

• Pearson MyMedicalTerminologyLab provides additional practice (not graded).

Course Policies

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is tracked by submission of learning assignments.

• Assignments are due weekly; late work is not accepted except for jury duty or military service with documentation.

• Students are responsible for all missed work due to absences.

Grading System

CGTC Grading Scale:

Note: An overall average of 70 (C) is required to pass the course.

Academic Integrity

• Plagiarism and academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited.

• First offense: zero for the assignment; second offense: removal from class and/or college.

Student Support Services

• Free tutoring available through the Academic Success/Tutoring Center (ASC).

• Counseling services for emotional, academic, and behavioral support.

• Special Populations/Disability Accommodations for eligible students.

• Library services and online resources accessible with student credentials.

• Military and Veteran Services for active duty, veterans, and dependents.

• TEAMS Outreach Center for early intervention and academic support.

Work Ethics

• Students are evaluated on ten work ethics traits: appearance, attendance, attitude, character, communication, cooperation, organizational skills, productivity, teamwork, and respect.

• Work ethics grades range from 0 (Unacceptable) to 3 (Exceeds Expectations).

Equal Opportunity and Non-Discrimination

Central Georgia Technical College is committed to equal opportunity and does not discriminate based on age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status. Title IX policies prohibit sexual misconduct and discrimination. For concerns, contact the Title IX Coordinator.

Course Content Alignment with Medical Terminology Topics

• Word Parts and Construction: Focus on roots, prefixes, suffixes, and combining forms.

• Body Systems: Overview and terminology for all major body systems, including structure, function, and common pathologies.

• Medical Abbreviations and Symbols: Interpretation and application in clinical contexts.

• Diagnostic, Surgical, and Procedural Terms: Application across all body systems.

Additional Information

• All course materials are subject to copyright and should not be shared outside the course.

• Grade appeals and grievances follow official college procedures.

• The Technical College System of Georgia guarantees the competency of its graduates.