Course Description

Course Description

The human anatomy and physiology curriculum is designed to continue student investigations that began in grades K-8 and high school biology. This curriculum is extensively performance and laboratory based. It integrates the study of the structures and functions of the human body, however rather than focusing on distinct anatomical and physiological systems (respiratory, nervous, etc.) instruction should focus on the essential requirements for life. Areas of study include organization of the body; protection, support and movement; providing internal coordination and regulation; processing and transporting; and reproduction, growth and development. Chemistry should be integrated throughout anatomy and not necessarily taught as a stand-alone unit. Whenever possible, related to medicine, research, health-care and modern medical technology should be emphasized throughout the curriculum. Case studies concerning diseases, disorders and ailments (i.e. real-life applications) should be emphasized.

Course Objectives:

1. Students will analyze anatomical structures in relationship to their physiological functions.

a. Apply correct terminology when explaining the orientation of body parts and regions.

b. Investigate the interdependence of the various body systems to each other and to the body as a whole.

c. Explain the role of homeostasis and its mechanisms as these relate to the body as a whole and predict the

consequences of the failure to maintain homeostasis.

d. Relate cellular metabolism and transport to homeostasis and cellular reproduction.

e. Describe how structure and function are related in terms of cell and tissue types.

2. Students will analyze the interdependence of the integumentary, skeletal, and muscular systems as these relate to the protection, support and movement of the human body.

a. Relate the structure of the integumentary system to its functional role in protecting the body and maintaining homeostasis.

b. Explain how the skeletal structures provide support and protection for tissues, and function together with

the muscular system to make movements possible.

3. Students will assess the integration and coordination of body functions and their dependence on the endocrine

and nervous systems to regulate physiological activities.

a. Interpret interactions among hormones, senses, and nerves which make possible the coordination of

functions of the body.

b. Investigate the physiology of electrochemical impulses and neural integration and trace the pathway of an

impulse, relating biochemical changes involved in the conduction of the impulse.

c. Describe how the body perceives internal and external stimuli and responds to maintain a stable internal

environment, as it relates to biofeedback.

4. Students will analyze the physical, chemical, and biological properties of process systems as these relate to

transportation, absorption and excretion, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, excretory and immune systems.

a. Describe the chemical and physical mechanisms of digestion, elimination, transportation, and absorption

within the body to change food and derive energy.

b. Analyze, and explain the relationships between the respiratory and cardiovascular systems as they obtain

oxygen needed for the oxidation of nutrients and removal of carbon dioxide.

c. Relate the role of the urinary system to regulation of body wastes (i.e. water electrolyte balance, volume of

body fluids).

d. Examine various conditions that change normal body functions (e.g. tissue rejection, allergies, injury,

diseases and disorders) and how the body responds.

e. Describe the effects of aging on body systems.

5. Students will analyze the role of the reproductive system as it pertains to the growth and development of

humans.

a. Explain how the functions of the reproductive organs are regulated by hormonal interactions.

b. Describe the stages of human embryology and gestation including investigation of gestational and

congenital disorders (e.g. ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, cleft palate, hydrocephaly, fetal alcohol syndrome).

c. Describe the stages of development from birth to adulthood (i.e. neonatal period, infancy, childhood,

adolescence and puberty, and maturity).