Course Catalogue

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In this course, you will explore the scientific principles which underlie investigations into the form, function and development of the human body from early embryological stages into adulthood. Anatomy 3A and 3B build on the Level 2 Life Sciences courses, developing an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of the human body, underpinned by a programme of laboratory practicals and discussion of current research and clinical implications.

This course will consist of five teaching blocks, each consisting of approximately 12 one-hour lectures and supporting labs and workshops, lasting 2-3 hours in most cases. Sessions on scientific skills, graduate attributes and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion will also run throughout the semester. The timetable will vary week to week to accommodate staff and resource availability and to meet the educational needs of each teaching block.

Normally, this course is only open to students admitted to Year 3 of a programme for which this is a compulsory course.

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The course will be assessed by a 3-hour examination (50%), in the April/May diet, and in-course assessments including class test(s) (10%), practical skills assessment(s) (10%), written assignment(s) (15%) and lab report(s) (15%).

Reassessments are normally available for all courses, except those which contribute to the Honours classification. For non-Honours courses, students are offered reassessment in all or any of the components of assessment if the satisfactory (threshold) grade for the overall course is not achieved at the first attempt. This is normally grade D3 for undergraduate students and grade C3 for postgraduate students. Exceptionally it may not be possible to offer reassessment of some coursework items, in which case the mark achieved at the first attempt will be counted towards the final course grade. Any such exceptions for this course are described below. 

Practical skills assessment(s)

The aims of the course are:

■ To provide a broad-based knowledge and understanding of anatomy;

■ To develop basic practical skills relevant to anatomy-focused laboratory techniques;

■ To develop skills relating to the systematic acquisition and analysis of factual information and data;

■ To develop the ability to solve problems and to critically analyse, interpret and discuss factual information and data;

■ To provide opportunities to practise and improve written and oral communication skills.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

■ discuss the central facts and the experimental basis of modern anatomy, including neuroanatomy and upper limb biology; 

■ appraise the use of modern technologies for the study of anatomy, including histological techniques; 

■ demonstrate practical skills in fundamental anatomical techniques including dissection and histology; 

■ explain legislation and health and safety issues relevant to a human anatomy laboratory; 

■ communicate experimental, interpretative and ethical aspects of science, using oral presentations, written work and information technology skills; 

■ plan an experiment and apply appropriate methods, including statistics, to analyse experimental data; 

■ solve problems of a numerical or logical nature using statistics where appropriate; 

■ identify and critically evaluate relevant scientific literature;

■ work independently and as part of a team.

Students must submit at least 75% by weight of the components (including examinations) of the course's summative assessment.