Science Department

Essential Knowledge and Skills

This course is an introduction to human anatomy and physiology. Concepts include the structure and function of the human body following a systemic approach to its study that includes the examination of cell, tissue, and organ structure and function. This program focuses on topics that will prepare the students for college human anatomy and physiology. Students will be introduced to the relationship between structure and function within the body’s 11 basic organ systems. A portion of the class will be in the form of comprehensive lab assignments including lab exercises, demonstrations, and dissections. This course has a prerequisite of high school biology and chemistry to ensure a basic knowledge of biological chemistry and cell biology.

Indicators of Student Learning:

Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

Using the Scientific Method

• Explain the basic body plan of a human.

• Define homeostasis and explain its role in a functioning human.

• Describe the structure and function of major cell types in the body.

• Explain the utilization of glucose to produce ATP for energy.

• Describe the structure and function of the 11 body systems.

• Point out structural and functional relationships in the human body.

• Demonstrate the ability to communicate scientific information and theory in written work.

• Use a microscope and other basic laboratory equipment.

• Locate anatomical structures in the human and animal specimens and models.

• Demonstrate critical thinking skills using the understanding learned from this course.

• Interpret scientific graphs, tables, and charts.

Communication

• Build medical vocabulary through concepts and understanding.

• Use communication strategies to facilitate retention of information such as repeating information, constructing mnemonics, and taking notes.

• Connect prior knowledge and new information to expand understanding of anatomy and physiology topics.

• Share ideas and information in small and whole class discussion, visual presentations, written responses, and multimedia presentations.

• Use writing as learning tool, e.g. journals, research reports, lab reports, essays, and notes.

Critical Thinking

• Critical thinking skills include “higher order” type thinking abilities such as synthesis, evaluation, problem solving, and application. Students demonstrate this kind of thinking as modeled in lectures, demonstrations, readings, practical classroom discussions, and self-study activities.

Technology

• Use of computer based anatomical software program for labs and individual research.

• Use of PowerPoint for classroom discussions and presentations.

• Collaboration with peers to use technology to compile and produce projects and models.

• Create and give multimedia presentations using PowerPoint and other digital enhancement programs for the classroom.

Assessment

Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

• Demonstrate competency in scientific method including: drawing and labeling diagrams and charts produced in a lab setting.

• Demonstrate competency in scientific reasoning by successful completion of laboratory and project based assignments.

• Demonstrate acquisition of core content and terms by using vocabulary in their discussion and written work including successful completion of written assignments and other evaluation tools.