Anatomy and Physiology I Syllabus for 2025-2026
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Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

BIOL-2401-HRD1 Anatomy and Physiology I

Prerequisites

Course Description

Anatomy and Physiology I is the first part of a two course sequence. It is a study of the structure and function of the human body including cells, tissues and organs of the following systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and special senses. Emphasis is on interrelationships among systems and regulation of physiological functions involved in maintaining homeostasis. The lab provides hands-on learning experience for exploration of human system components and basic physiology.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(4 sem hrs; 3 lec, 3 lab)

Class Type

Hybrid

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Fundamentals of  Anatomy & Physiology, by Martini, Nath and Bartholomew, Eleventh edition, Pearson Publishers - REQUIRED 

Human Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory Manual, Thirteenth edition, by Elaine Marieb, Susan Mitchell and Lori Smith - OPTIONAL 

You will need to also print your lab handouts or purchase a packet with all lab handouts from the front office. - REQUIRED 

• You can print using your print hub for $0.05 per page (be sure to print double-sided). Total cost about $3. 

• If you choose to purchase the packet from the front office, it will cost about $6.  

Supplies

Pens, Pencils, Colored Pencils, Binder or folder to organize lab handouts and notes, and a notebook.

Access to a reliable computer and reliable internet connectivity.  There is access to computers and the internet for students at all AC campuses.

For labs (every time we meet in person) you will be required to wear appropriate lab clothing including closed toe shoes and long pants unless instructed otherwise.

Student Performance

By the end of the semester you will be able to satisfactorily complete all of the listed learning objectives (below) with a minimum of 70% competency level based on the completion of the required examinations and other work as required by the instructor.

After studying the material presented in this course, you will be able to do the following:

1. Use anatomical terminology to identify and describe locations of major organs of each system covered.

2. Explain interrelationships among molecular, cellular, tissue and organ functions in each system.

3. Describe the interdependency and interactions of the systems.

4. Explain contributions of organs and systems to the maintenance of homeostasis.

5. Identify causes and effects of homeostatic imbalances.

6. Describe modern technology and tools used to study anatomy and physiology.

7. Apply appropriate safety and ethical standards.

8. Locate and identify anatomical structures.

9. Appropriately utilize laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, dissection tools, general lab ware, physiology data acquisition systems and virtual simulations.

10. Work collaboratively to perform experiments.

11. Demonstrate the steps involved in the scientific method.

12. Communicate results of scientific investigations, analyze data and formulate conclusions.

13. Use critical thinking and scientific problem-solving skills, including, but not limited to, inferring, integrating, synthesizing and summarizing to make decisions, recommendations and predictions.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Kindness and respectfulness is necessary for this course. These traits should be evident in all communications and actions in class, office hours and via email. I ask that you come to class with an open mind, positive attitude and a desire to learn. 

EXPECTATIONS FOR SUCCESS:

1. Arrive to class on time and participate in class activities and discussions. I reserve the right to close and lock the classroom door if punctuality becomes a disruption to the learning process of others. 

2. Check Blackboard regularly for announcements, quizzes, homework, lectures and other materials. Plan on accessing course materials every day of the week this semester in order to truly learn and understand course material. 

3. Prepare for class by completing all chapter readings before class. Your textbook is a fantastic resource… please be sure to use it as such. Likewise, watch and take notes on all recorded lectures posted for that day prior to class so that you are prepared to ask and answer questions about the content. 

4. Complete all assignments before the due date. Do NOT wait until the last minute to complete an assignment. We all know technology does not always cooperate when you need it to work. You will not be able to submit an assignment after the due date. 

5. Attend and be cognitively present at all course meetings. Being engaged during class helps facilitate learning. Do not be afraid to ask questions or answer incorrectly… that is how we learn! "The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing." - John Powell 

6. Designate at least 20 hours of study time outside of the regularly scheduled class time per week (This does not include the time it takes you to watch and take notes on the lectures). This is an extremely difficult class that requires more work outside of class than your typical course. Students who do not meet this expectation historically struggle to pass the course. I encourage active study techniques. If you need help with learning how to effectively study, please reach out to me or work with the science tutors for suggestions. 

7. Keep up with your grades. Access to your individual assignment grades and course average can be found on blackboard. I will update grades in a timely manner. While passing grades are always the goal, focus more on the learning process and truly understanding the material rather than just “getting the grade”. 

8. Maintain college level effort and behaviors in the class. We cover a lot of information in a short period of time. This class will require you to work hard. You will not learn all required material by simply attending class. 

9. Come to class with an open mind and a positive attitude. Having a positive classroom culture (created by everyone in the room) will set the mood for the semester and the likelihood of success. 

10. Have fun and learn something new! 

I am excited for this semester and I hope you are too! 

Grievance Procedure:

If you are having a problem with the course policies or the instructor, you should first try to resolve any such problems with the instructor.  If the problem is not resolved, you may proceed to the Biology Department Chairman, the Dean of STEM, the Vice-President of student affairs, or the college President, IN THAT ORDER.

Cell Phones and Technology: 

Phones, laptops, tablets and other technology can support student learning, but it can also become a distraction. Research indicates that multi-tasking (texting or going online) during class time can have a negative impact on learning. Out of respect for your fellow students in this class, please refrain from using laptops or mobile phones for entertainment during class. Do not display any material on a laptop which may be distracting or offensive to your fellow students. Laptops may be used only for legitimate classroom purposes, such as taking notes, downloading course information, or working on an assigned in-class exercise. Checking social media, email, texting, games, and other online activities are not legitimate classroom purposes. Such inappropriate laptop and mobile phone use is distracting to those seated around you.

I understand that we all have different life commitments outside of the classroom. If you need to use your phone during class please do so in a way that is respectful to your classmates. If excessive texting becomes a distraction to others you may be asked to leave the classroom. If you need to take a phone call please excuse yourself from the classroom. 

Under no circumstances should you use cell phones or other technology (including smart watches) during quizzes, exams or lab practicals. Use of technology during an assessment will result in a grade of zero on that quiz or exam. 

Academic Integrity Policy:

Maintaining academic honesty is essential to creating a fair and respectful learning environment. In this course, all students are expected to complete their own work and uphold the principles of integrity and accountability.

Cheating and Plagiarism: 

Cheating, plagiarism, or any form of dishonest behavior—including copying from another student or using unauthorized sources—will result in at least a zero on the assignment up to a failing grade for the class and may lead to referral to the Dean of Student Services for further disciplinary actions.  This includes exams, quizzes, lab practicals, lab assignments and homework.

If you’re ever unsure whether something might violate academic integrity, please ask me—I'm here to help.

Use of AI and Internet Sources:

Unless an assignment specifically allows it, using the internet or AI tools (like ChatGPT) to generate answers is not permitted. Submissions inconsistent with demonstrated ability may be investigated further, including but not limited to requiring verbal explanation of submitted work. If such usage is detected on an assignment, you will receive a zero on that assignment. A repeated offense may result in a failing grade for the course and a report to the Dean. Assignments are meant to help you learn by utilizing your notes and textbooks. You do not learn if you simply are “google” searching or asking AI for the answers. 

Electronic Devices During Assessments:

To ensure fairness, no cell phones or other electronic devices (such as smart watches, headphones, smart glasses, etc.) are allowed to be visible during quizzes, exams or lab practicals. If your phone is seen at any time during an assessment, the assessment will be collected, and you will receive a zero. Repeated incidents will result in a failing grade for the course. Any behavior that appears suspicious or raises concerns may result in a zero for the assignment. Repeated concerns may lead to additional disciplinary action.

Due Dates:

Class work is to be submitted no later than the scheduled completion date; please see the class calendar. NO late work will be accepted under any circumstances. Blackboard submission timestamp is final.

Grading Criteria

Grading Schema:

• A = 89.5% to 100%

• B = 79.5% to 89%

• C = 69.5% to 79%

• D = 59.5% to 69%

• F = Less than 59.5%

Grading: 

Final grades are calculated on a weighted scale with the following criteria and percentages. The Blackboard overall grade calculation is the official grade calculation. 

45% Lecture Exams:

5 major exams consisting of multiple choice, true/false, matching and short answer questions will be  administered in the testing center. Each exam will contain approximately 50 questions with at least a 1 hour time limit. Late submissions will not be accepted and will result in a zero. Please pay attention to the due date and time for each exam (some exams are due before class on the day they are due, while others are due by close of the testing center on the day they are due). . 

ALL Exams must be completed in the AC HEREFORD testing center. Plan to take your exam before the due date. If you fail to plan accordingly, it does not warrant an emergency for anyone else. The exam will be completed on Blackboard and the testing center will have the access code for you to access the exam. Exams will be open four (4) work days prior to their due date. For Hereford testing information please visit https://www.actx.edu/hereford/hereford-campus-testing-center-hours 

Mandatory tutoring (if assigned) must be completed no later than the day before the exam is due and before you take the exam. If mandatory tutoring is not completed, by the due date, you will not be permitted to take the exam. The testing center will enforce this policy. Please be respectful to the testing proctors as they enforce this policy. 

20% Final Exam:

The final exam is a comprehensive exam (covering all material from this course) consisting of approximately 100 multiple choice questions and will be administered in the HEREFORD testing center. You will be given 120 minutes to complete the exam. The exam will be due by 5:00pm on the day that it is due. 

15% Lab Practical Exam:

Two lab exams will be administered in class. These exams will consist of 50-70 questions. All questions will be fill-in the blank or short answer questions. Accuracy of spelling is critical for these exams. The instructor will provide additional information on the format of the exam. 

10% Lab Quizzes:

Lab quizzes will consist of approximately 10-20 questions. The lab quiz will be a variety of fill in the blank, multiple choice, labeling and short answer questions. Lab quizzes will cover information from the previous lab period. 

Lab quizzes will be administered at the beginning of the class. If you arrive late to class and after the quiz has been passed out, you will NOT be permitted to take the quiz. If you do not attend class, you will earn a grade of zero for that quiz.  No make up quizzes will be given unless your absence is included in the extenuating circumstances listed below. 

10% Homework:

Each chapter has a corresponding homework assignment and/or case study assignment.  Questions will include: multiple choice, fill in the blank, matching and short answer. This homework can be found on Blackboard under the homework tab of each unit. Late submissions will not be accepted and will result in a zero. Homework is due by 11:59pm on the day that it is due. 

In addition, some in class lab activities will fall into the homework category. If you are absent for these activities, you will not be able to make up the work and it will result in a zero for that assignment. 

Additional grading information:

Grades will not be curved nor are extra credit assignments given so please do not ask. Final grades also will not be "rounded up". Grades will be strictly calculated based on the above grading scale and criteria. 

Make-up exams will only be allowed under extenuating circumstances as defined by the instructor. Lecture and lab exams will be administered at the testing center or in class at the discretion of the instructor. There are only 6 extenuating circumstances which will warrant exceptions for make up exams. These include (1) Death and attendance of a funeral for a close relative/friend (2) Hospitalization for 24 hours or more due to illness or labor/delivery (3) Jury duty (4) USCIS appointments (5) HESI exam appointments (6) Car accident on your way to take an exam (police report required). 

Sicknesses/illnesses, doctor appointments, appointments with lawyers and court cases are NOT considered extenuating circumstances. Evidence/proof must be provided before make-up exams are allowed. Please communicate diligently with your instructor during all absences.

Attendance

Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement.  Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class.  Attendance will be taken from the beginning to the end of the semester. Any assignments administered in class must be taken/completed on time. Tardiness (late) is defined as one minute or more after the scheduled class time based on the classroom clock. If classes are officially canceled, lecture and lab exams will be administered during the next class meeting.   

If you are not in attendance, please notify your instructor. When you miss one class, you are missing a lot of important  material. 

Calendar

Additional Information

Tutoring:

If your overall grade drops below a 75% or if you score below a 75% on any exam, you will be assigned one hour of mandatory tutoring. Be sure to schedule your appointment early due to limited availability of the tutors. Please do not look at this as punishment, but rather as an opportunity to get help in order to help you succeed in this class. This is where we grow! 

Guidelines for mandatory tutoring sessions: 

• You must have an appointment for a mandatory tutoring session. 

• Arrive on time to your appointment. Our tutors are busy and oftentimes have back-to-back appointments. If you are late, the tutor has the option to ask you to reschedule at a later date in time. 

• You are required to stay the entire time you are assigned mandatory tutoring. For example, if you are assigned one hour of tutoring you must stay at least 60 minutes — 58 minutes will not count that session as completed. 

• You must come prepared with materials including notes, textbooks and questions. 

• You CANNOT independently work during your session. This means that you cannot work on homework assignments (with the exception of asking for help on specific questions within the assignment) 

• Be respectful. The tutor always has the option to dismiss you if you are being disrespectful and rude. They are there to help you. 

• The tutor cannot "tell you the answer" but will guide you through the learning process. 

• Be open minded in the session. The tutors are there to help you succeed! They have so much valuable advice to share beyond the classroom content. 

• Do not mark your mandatory tutoring assignment as completed in watermark. The tutor or instructor is the only one who should complete assignments (we have a record when you close your own task). If you complete your own task you will be assigned an additional hour of tutoring. 

• If you attend an online tutoring session, please email your instructor to inform them that you have completed your mandatory tutoring session. 

• Alternative option: If you are assigned mandatory tutoring, you may fulfill this requirement by attending AND actively participating in TWO 90 minute group tutoring sessions led by the Science Tutor. 

If you are not assigned mandatory tutoring, I still encourage you to attend tutoring. We could all benefit from getting additional help!

Hereford tutoring center hours: (specific science tutor availability will be different. Please reference Blackboard or the tutoring schedule for more information). Hereford tutoring center has a strict policy about attendance for scheduled appointments. Please see their handbook for additional information. 

Monday -Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.  

Friday: 8:00am - 12:00pm

Book your Hereford tutoring appointment here: https://outlook.office365.com/book/HerefordTutoring1@actx.edu/ 

Amarillo science tutoring center hours: Monday - Thursday 8a 6p,  Friday & Saturday 9a 6p,  Sunday Closed

Hours subject to change for summer semesters and holidays. 

Book virtual or in person tutoring through Amarillo Science tutoring center here: https://outlook.office365.com/book/ScienceTutoringCenter@actx.edu/ 

Testing Center:

Location: Hereford Campus Room 122 

Phone: (806)379-2792.

Hours: 

Monday -Thursday: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (All exams will be submitted/picked up at 4:55 p.m. even if the exam is not completed.)

Friday 8:00am-12:00pm (All exams will be submitted/picked up at 11:55 p.m. even if the exam is not completed.)

Each instructor designates exam time limits. Therefore, time limits vary per exam. Please plan accordingly and arrive with enough time to complete your exam. Students MUST present a valid, non-expired photo ID each time they test.

Rules/Guidelines:

• Students must whisper when entering or checking in to avoid disturbing other testers.

• Currently enrolled AC Students must know their student ID number to check-in.

• No talking is allowed during the exam.

• No ID = No Test.  All testers are required to present a valid, non-expired photo ID each time they test. 

• Exam time is designated by the instructor.

• There is an area/shelf for students to leave belongings, including non-permitted items.

• Cell phones, smartwatches, or any other electronic devices are NOT permitted.

• Cell phones must be turned off at all times.

  • For online exams, students may need their phone to access DUO for logging into their AC account. After logging in, the student should turn off their phone and leave it in the designated area for belongings.

• Food or beverages are NOT permitted.

• Purses, bags, backpacks, etc. are NOT permitted.

• No one may accompany a tester into a testing room at any time. This includes children, friends, spouses, etc. Children may NOT be left unattended in hallways, waiting areas, etc. while testers are testing.

• The only materials allowed in the testing rooms are those outlined by each exam sponsor or instructor.

• Restroom breaks may be allowed with the instructor's permission, as outlined in the exam instructions.

Dishonesty/Cheating Policy

If any student is caught cheating, the test will be taken up immediately and you will be asked to leave. The instructor and dean will be contacted immediately in any cases of cheating. The instructor and dean will then handle the violation per Amarillo College's Policies and Guidelines. 

Cheating includes:

• Copying from another student’s test paper/computer.

• Using test materials not authorized by the person administering the test.

• Collaborating with or seeking aid from another student during a test without permission from the test administrator.

• Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, or soliciting, in whole or in part, the contents of an unadministered test.

• The unauthorized transporting or removal, in whole or in part, of the contents of the unadministered test.

• Substituting for another student, or permitting another student to substitute for one’s self, to take a test.

• Bribing another person to obtain an unadministered test or information about an unadministered test.

• No questions - No Arguments.

Bad Weather: 

If classes are canceled due to inclement weather, you are responsible for reading and learning the material that would have been covered. If an exam or quiz was scheduled and classes are canceled, the exam or quiz will be given the next class meeting. Be prepared. If class is canceled on the last day of class and an exam was scheduled, then the exam will be added to the final exam and the questions will count as the exam and the final exam. All attendance policies will be enforced, unless Amarillo College officially cancels classes, No Exceptions. Cancellations will be announced on the radio (and sometimes tv) by 6:30 AM or 3:00 PM for evening classes. Also, check the website. I will also email you if there is a closing. Individual travel issues do not equate to an excused absence. 

Email:  

I will check my email regularly. I will try to respond within 24 hours, except on weekends and holidays. I will respond as quickly as I can, but please do not always expect an immediate response.  Remember, I teach other courses.  Be patient.  Also, remember I will send emails to your AC Google email address. Please always use your college email for communications and regularly check this email and Blackboard for course updates. Please be professional in your email communications and include your full name and course number on all communications.  Be sure to always include a subject in the email. If you do not add a subject, AC filters that email as “junk” and it will not be delivered to me.

You can email me at any time of the day or night, you are NOT bothering me by emailing me. Sometimes, I will email you at odd times. Managing work, school and life responsibilities is unique for everyone. I will send emails at a time that works for me. Please respond to those emails at a time that works for you.

Materials Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): MSDS may be reviewed upon request.

Information Technology (IT) help: Email Info: CTLstudenthelp@actx.edu  or Call: 806- 371-5992

Census date: Is the last day to drop with the course NOT appearing on your transcript. Census date for SUMMER is June 15, 2026 

Withdraw: 

A grade of "W" will be given for drops or withdraws on or before the published official withdrawal date.  You may not drop or withdraw after that date.

Students who wish to withdraw from a class must consult with their instructor first. Students can either communicate via email or meet face-to-face with their instructor to begin the withdrawal process. If the instructor and the student both agree that withdrawal is the appropriate course of action, the student will need to complete a withdrawal form. Once the student portion is complete, then the student must take that form to the instructor for signature. It is then the student’s responsibility to then send the form to the registrar’s office. The Registrar’s Office will process the withdrawal and notify both the student and instructor via AC email. You are only allowed 6 withdrawals during your academic career. 

The withdrawal form can be found here: https://www.actx.edu/registrar/forms 

Last day to withdraw for Summer 2026: July 21, 2026

Final Grade Changes: The final grade turned into the registrar office will not be changed unless approved by the full time Biology Faculty Committee. Requests must be in writing.

Biology Laboratory Safety Rules

1. Never work alone in the laboratory without permission and prior knowledge of the instructor.

2. Do not engage in rowdy, playful, or unprofessional activities in the laboratory. This includes not being disrespectful of your instructor or classmates.

3.     Students should wash hands thoroughly after first entering the lab and when finished with the lab.

4. Students should never eat or drink anything in the laboratory or during lab time without explicit permission from the instructor.

5. Wear appropriate clothing at all times in the laboratory. Wear closed-toe shoes that cover the top of the foot, unless permission otherwise is given by the instructor.

6.     During certain labs, you will be required to wear examination gloves and safety glasses when dissecting or handling biological parts/organs, dangerous chemicals, bacterial broth cultures, or as otherwise advised by your instructor.

7.   Wear gloves when handling any microorganisms. 

8. Keep hands away from your face, eyes, and mouth when working in the lab or during lab time. This includes not applying cosmetics, not adjusting contact lenses, and not biting your fingernails.

9.    If any chemicals or other agents splash into your eyes, immediately go to the nearest sink and flush your eyes with water.

10.  Report ANY and ALL accidents, spills, BREAKAGES, or injuries to the instructor, no matter how trivial they appear.

11.  Scalpels and other sharp objects can be used only if authorized by the instructor and only after given proper handling instructions. Use small trays to carry all sharp objects. When handling sharp objects, point their tips down and away from other people.

12. While wearing examination gloves, students must not leave the laboratory and must not touch any equipment such as microscopes, any personal items such as cell phones, or any door knobs.

13.  Wipe down tables before and after labs, making sure to remove any trash in or around your table. 

14.  Lab benches should be kept free of extraneous items while conducting experiments.  This includes unnecessary books, backpacks, cell phones, and other personal items.

15. Any pregnant or immunocompromised student must notify the instructor of the course. Pregnant students will not be allowed to do dissections or work with any body fluids without having a doctor’s note for permission. A pregnant student is required to wear safety glasses and 2 sets of examination gloves when handling any bacterial broths or cultures.

Universal Precautions for Students Working With Urine or Saliva

1.     Before the lab, wash hands thoroughly and line the work area with clean paper towels.

2.     Students must wear gloves and may only handle their own body fluids.

3. Students must wear lab aprons, safety glasses, and surgical masks.

4. Rinse and dispose of all supplies that may have come into contact with urine or saliva in the appropriate biohazard container.

5.     Dispose of urine in the bathroom toilet and saliva in the sink.

6.     After the lab, wipe down the work area with disinfectant and wash hands thoroughly.

Disposal Policies

1.     Dispose of broken glassware in the marked cardboard box container. Broken glass containers are ONLY to be used for broken glass. Always use a broom and dust-pan if asked to clean up broken glassware.

2.     Dispose of used slides in the glass, or plastic, container labeled “Used Slides”.

3.     Biohazardous wastes must be disposed of in a biohazard waste container. Preserved materials (e.g. cat tissues) are not considered biohazardous waste and can be disposed of in the regular trash. Your instructor will inform you which disposal containers are to be used with which type of biohazardous waste (metal sharps, glass, and non-sharps).

4.   Uncontaminated gloves can be disposed of in the regular trash. Contaminated gloves must be disposed of in a biohazard waste container. Examination gloves used in dissections are not considered to be biohazard waste and can be disposed of in the regular trash.

Expectations

1.     Each student will leave the laboratory clean and organized for the next lab section. Leave your work area as clean, or cleaner, than you found it and return lab items to the designated locations in the drawers or cabinets. Make sure waste and trash are placed in the appropriate receptacles. Be sure to collect all personal belongings before leaving for the day.
 

Special Notes:

Material included is intended to provide an outline of the course and rules that the instructor will adhere to in evaluating the student's progress.  This syllabus serves as a “contract” between the instructor and the student. 

I reserve the right to amend this syllabus at any time during the semester. The schedule/calendar is also subject to change. All changes will be announced in class or via email/Blackboard announcement.