BI1BH12-Human Physiology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: AP1A27 Introductory Physiology and BI1AP12 Anatomy & Physiology and FB1PN Introduction to Human Physiology and Nutrition
Current from: 2020/1

Module Convenor: Dr Natasha Barrett

Email: n.e.barrett@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

A comparative approach to explore how organs work to support life.

Anatomy and Physiology is the study of the structure and function of the Human body consolidated through selected comparisons made to other vertebrates.  This module introduces the structure and function of each of the main systems of the body. Theoretical knowledge is gained through lectures and then applied in practical classes.

Aims:

To provide students with an introduction to the disciplines of anatomy and physiology through studies on systems in Humans.  

To introduce the basic anatomy of the Human body and the physiological processes taking place every day.

To consolidate understanding of the Human body through comparisons to a range of other vertebrates.

To take a systems-approach to the body and start to explore how the functional requirements drive the structure of the body (Human or animal), whilst the structure enables the functional capabilities.  

Theoretical knowledge is gained through lectures and then applied in practical classes.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the course students should be able to: 

• Describe the anatomy (structure) and physiology (function) of the Human body, and its similarities and differences to a range of other vertebrates.


• Describe physiological principles such as homeostasis and feedback mechanisms .


• Describe how the systems interact and work together to produce the overall structure and function of the Human or animal.

Additional outcomes:

Develop practical laboratory skills and basic laboratory techniques.  Develop data analysis skills such as arithmetical skills in calculations based on practical exercises as well as molarity and concentration calculations.  Develop data presentation skills such as the production of graphical data.  Develop critical analysis skills through reflection on the quality of data produced.  Develop computer literacy through completion and submission of online coursework.  Develop the ability to work in the laboratory as a member of a small team.

Outline content:

The lectures  cover the main systems within the Human body and introduces similarities and differences to other vertebrates, including :

• Introduction to Anatomy


• Introduction to Physiology (homeostasis, body fluids)


• Cardiovascular system


• Respiratory system


• Blood system


• Gastro-intestinal system


• Renal system


• Nervous system


• Special s enses (eyes, ears, nose and throat)


• Musculo-skeletal system


• Skin


• Immune system


• Endocrine system


• Reproductive systems

Practical sessions apply some of the theory covered in the lectures.

Global context:

A systems-based approach to understand anatomy and physiology in Humans, consolidated through selected comparisons to a range of vertebrates.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Theoretical knowledge will be gained through formal lectures and then be applied in practical sessions.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20	20
Practicals classes and workshops	6	6
Guided independent study:	74	74
Total hours by term			0
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	80
Set exercise	20

Summative assessment- Examinations:
One and a half hour examination

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework: Online assignments based on the practical classes will contribute to the overall coursework assessment in Anatomy and Physiology. For practical classes, in order to obtain a mark, it is necessary to both attend the classes and to submit the relevant assignment. No mark will be given to the assignment unless the attendance register has been signed at the relevant class.

Formative assessment methods:

Formative assessment and verbal feedback of practical laboratory skills will be given continuously during all practical sessions.

Practice calculations (molarity, concentrations etc.) are available on blackboard.

Practice examination questions, with answers for self-assessment, are made available on blackboard and/or in a revision session.

Penalties for late submission:

The Module Convenor will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day[1] (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-examination in August/September

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Required text books: Recommended text books are available in the library, or to purchase if students prefer.  Wider reading of journal articles is also recommended and suitable ones can be accessed for free through the library.


2. Specialist equipment or materials: Practical classes and associated online assignments may require use of a calculator, ruler, paper, pens and pencils.


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided in laboratory classes. In compliance with the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 1992 Act, while studying this module students will be expected to wear the following item/s: Lab coat/Safety glasses/Safety gloves. 


4. Printing and binding: None expected.


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification: Online assignments will need to be completed on a standard computer over the internet.  Students can use their own or one of the university computers in computer rooms around campus.


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  None expected.

Last updated: 8 April 2020