Anatomy and Physiology

How can the results of an ECG (EKG) indicate heart pathology? How does a bone grow? What are the latest developments in reproductive medicine? How does the histology of a normal lung compare to that with emphysema? These are among the questions that are addressed in Anatomy and Physiology.

This is an honors level course that is designed to investigate the anatomy and physiology of the 11 major body systems. This course begins with a quick review of biological levels of organization and microscopy and then focuses on both structure and function of the following systems: skeletal system, muscular, respiratory, circulatory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, immune, endocrine and nervous. The course culminates with a look at how the systems work together to ensure homeostasis for the body and what happens when one or more of these systems don't function correctly.

Students play anatomy games, complete online quizzes, analyze histology data (using NIH imaging software) and communicate results in lab reports, complete shorter writing assignments, conduct "hands on" labs and activities, and research specific topics such as hormones, viruses and the senses. Students regularly engage in virtual "lab meetings" and discussions about the latest topics associated with each system. During the first term, students work individually on a project that looks at the structure and function of a particular type of cell. Students collaborate with classmates in a team project to identify the anatomy and physiology associated with a particular disease during the second term.

The content and pace of the course require students to attend class and complete work regularly; it is expected that students will spend 8-10 hours per week on average in this course. Those who have successfully completed a biology course and are looking for a challenging study of the anatomy and physiology of the human body are good candidates for the course.

• To use twenty first century learning tools to communicate, collaborate and present information each week in a virtual anatomy and physiology classroom
  
• To describe the levels of biological organization, from the cell to the organ system
  
• To examine the general anatomy and physiology associated with the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, respiratory, circulatory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, immune, endocrine and nervous systems
  
• To examine the histology of major types of tissues to relate their structure to their function
  
• To identify the latest research and medical advancements in each of the 11 systems as well as the potential careers associated with anatomy
  
• To describe how systems work together to ensure homeostasis through positive and negative feedback mechanisms
  
• To collaborate with a classmate to research that underlying anatomy and physiology associated with a particular disease