Northwest Rankin High School

Human Anatomy & Physiology Course Outline

I. Course Description:

Human Anatomy and Physiology is a laboratory-based course that investigates the structure and function of the human body. Topics covered will include the basic organization of the body; biochemical composition; and major body systems along with the impact of diseases on certain systems.

Emphasis is on developing the ability to ask questions, to observe, to experiment, to measure, to use computers and calculators, to problem solve/reason, to use tools of science, to gather data, and to communicate findings. Laboratory experiences should allow the student to manipulate compounds, models, and in some circumstances parts of their own bodies such as measuring the length of their arms, legs, fingers, etc. Dissection of small animals either by virtual lab programs or prepared specimens will be an important part of exploring anatomical structures. Through actively investigating and discussing scientific ideas using a variety of tools, students will become confident scientific thinkers.

II. Course Competencies

· Utilize critical thinking and scientific problem solving in designing and

performing biological research and experimentation

· Describe the basic organization of the body using the appropriate

anatomical concepts.

· Discuss the biochemical composition of the human body.

· Explore the relationship of the cell to the more complex levels of organization within the body.

· Identify the structure and function of the human body systems,

explore the interactions among the systems and investigate major

disorders/diseases associated with each.

III. Course Procedures

All Human A & P students will be required to keep a separate three-ring binder notebook with eight dividers. Human A & P is a lab-oriented class. Proper safety procedures will be expected of all students at all times while in the lab. Labs will be graded using a rubric. A lab safety contract must be on file signed by the parent and the student in order for a student to participate in lab. A lab safety test will be given. Students will be expected to work in teacher assigned groups for much of the year. Research states that these skills are important to success in college and in most careers. Students will be evaluated on both individual grades and group grades.

IV. Major Projects and Assignment

1. Bell-Ringers - Each class period will start with a bell ringer which will count as class-work.

2. Daily class work and homework – Grades will be taken each day on material that is covered in class.

3. Lab – Labs will be graded using a rubric. Failure to dress properly or to use proper safety procedures will result in zeroes. Lab reports will be required.

4. Tests and quizzes – Tests will be divided up by units and will contain different types of test questions including essay questions. Nine weeks and semester exams will be given and will count 20% as indicated by the RCSD Student Handbook.

5. Projects – Each student will be required to do one oral presentation per semester. The presentation itself will be graded according to the rubric used for Senior Project including the professional dress policy.

6. Outside Reading – Students will be required to complete an outside reading assignment both semesters. Novels will be assigned by individual teachers. Students will have to complete a follow-up assignment.

V. Assessment Plan

Grades will be determined using the following percentages:

50% Unit tests and Major Projects

30% Classwork

20% Laboratory work

In addition, the following will help you determine how that will be graded:

Grade	Scale	Description of Work
A	95-100	Consistently demonstrates an exceptional level of quality and effort. Having all work in on time and completed to exceed expectations. Mastery in evaluating, synthesizing and applying the principles of of Human Anatomy and Physiology.
B	85-94	Consistently demonstrates proficient knowledge with good effort and quality of work. All assignments are complete and on time. Demonstrates the ability to evaluate, analyze, synthesize and apply the principles of Human A & P
C	75-84	Demonstrates proficient knowledge and the ability to apply and analyze Human A & P principles. Work shows average effort. A few assignments may be missed or late.
D	70-74	Work shows minimal effort and some assignments are late. Demonstrates a basic understanding of recalling or comprehending the principles of Human A & P
F	Below 70	Understanding is below basic in relation to the principles of Human A & P. Work is of poor quality and does not meet standards or expectations.

VI. Extra Help

Teachers are available each morning before school and after school each day to help you with any problems you may have with this course. Please request an appointment with them in advance to insure that they will be in their classrooms at that time. Free tutors are also available from organizations such as National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta and Beta Club. Teachers will have a copy of this information should you be interested.