Foundations of Anatomy and Physiology

This unit introduces foundational concepts in human anatomy and physiology, covering chemical building blocks, cellular structure and the cell cycle, tissue types, and the basic organization and functions of major organ systems. Students develop the vocabulary and skills to analyze how cells and tissues form organs, maintain homeostasis, and prepare for deeper physiological, pathophysiological, and clinical applications in subsequent units.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the hierarchical organization of the human body from atoms and molecules to cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems, using examples from integumentary, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems
• Demonstrate understanding of cellular structure and processes by labeling major organelles, explaining membrane transport mechanisms, and describing stages of the cell cycle including common errors that can lead to disease
• Apply knowledge of tissue classification by identifying and comparing epithelial, connective, muscle (smooth, cardiac, skeletal), and nervous tissues and correlating their microscopic structures with functions and typical body locations
• Evaluate the basic functions and interrelationships of major organ systems (respiratory, circulatory, digestive, urinary, lymphatic, endocrine, and reproductive) and predict how disruption in one system can affect overall homeostasis