Anatomy and Physiology Short Course

Level 3 Anatomy and Physiology Short Course Content

Unit 1: Introduction to the Human Body

The first module is an outline of the course contents and introduces the body systems in a rational manner, demonstrating the links that exist between them. The content also covers basic body chemistry and organization in preparation for subsequent modules.

The course material covers three main areas:

• Homeostasis, including the areas of; negative feedback mechanisms, positive feedback mechanisms, survival mechanisms, transport systems, internal communications systems, Intake and elimination.
• Body chemistry, including the areas of; Atoms, molecules and compounds.
• Organization, including;  Cell structure and function, tissues, and organization of body structures and systems.

Unit 2: Communication Systems within the Body: Part 1

There are three modules related to the subject of communication, structures and organs. These enable the body to communicate both internally and with the external world will be presented. In addition to structure, function and physiological aspects, each module will give brief information on some more common diseases and disorders.

• Blood: Composition, functions and common disorders.
• Cardiovascular System: Vessels, heart, circulation, blood pressure, pulse and common disorders and diseases.

Unit 3: Communication Systems within the Body: Part 2

• Lymphatic: Vessels, organs and tissues; structure and function, common disorders and diseases.
• Nervous system: Structure and function; brain and spinal cord; autonomic nervous system; common disorders and diseases.

Unit 4: Communication Systems within the Body: Part 3

• Special senses: The ear: structure and function, The eye: structure and function, Physiology of smell and taste, and Common disorders and diseases.
• Endocrine system: Structure and function; common disorders and diseases.

Unit 5: Intake and Elimination Systems of the Body: Part 1

Three further modules cover intake and elimination. The student will focus more specifically on how the body functions, what it requires to maintain function and growth and the mechanisms that are in place for the elimination of waste products.

The unit will also look at the respiratory system, taking into consideration:

• The structure and function, including upper and lower respiratory tracts.
• Physiology of respiration.
• Common disorders and diseases that effect the respiratory system.

Unit 6: Intake and Elimination Systems of the Body: Part 2

Within this unit, the course materials look at nutrition and investigates the structure and function of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, minerals, vitamins and water. A look is also taken at the digestive system, observing the structure and function, absorption of nutrients, metabolism and common disorders and diseases.

Level 3 Anatomy + Physiology Diploma Module 7: Intake and Elimination Systems of the Body: Part 3

This unit of study focuses on the urinary system, investigating:

• Structure and function.
• Physiology of micturition.
• Common disorders and diseases.

Unit 8: The Survival and Protective Systems of the Body: Part 1

The final three modules will cover survival and protection. Students will examine basic genetics, the replication of the human cell, together with repair and how cells deal with invasion of bacteria, viruses and external breaches of defence mechanisms (for example wounds).

A look will also be given to the skin, its structure and function, wound healing and common disorders and diseases that can occur on the skin. The unit will then progress on to look at immunity, with particular attention given to:

• Inflammatory response.
• Cell mediated immunity.
• Anti body immunity.
• Acquired immunity.
• Common disorders and diseases.

Unit 9: The Survival and Protective Systems of the Body: Part 2

This unit gives special consideration to the musculoskeletal System, focusing on the structure and function of bone. Investigations into the following areas are also covered:

• Axial skeleton.
• Appendicular skeleton.
• Joints.
• Muscles.
• Common disorders and diseases.

Unit 10: The Survival and Protective Systems of the Body: Part 3

Lastly, in this final unit of the course, the course materials take a look at basic genetics, covering areas such as:

• Chromosomes, genes and DNA.
• Protein synthesis.
• Cell division and inheritance.
• Common disorders and diseases.

The unit will also look into the reproductive systems, taking a closer look at:

• Structure and function.
• Common disorders and diseases.