Unit outline_

ANAT2011: Anatomy and Histology of Core Body Functions

Semester 2, 2025 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Where is your pancreas? What about your pituitary gland? How do we pack six meters of small intestine into our body? ANAT2011 is designed for students who are studying Human Anatomy and Histology for the first time, as well as those who have been introduced to human anatomy in biological sciences. In laboratory classes using human cadavers and human organ tissue you will gain fundamental knowledge of the anatomy of the brain and nerves; the anatomy of the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, endocrine and reproductive systems along with musculoskeletal anatomy. The hands-on laboratory classes are interwoven with lectures, tutorials and discussion groups, as well as on-line quizzes and self-directed learning modules. The course teaches the language of anatomy and develops your knowledge and practical skills in human anatomy and histology, preparing you for many applied anatomical settings. The laboratory sessions will require you to work together in teams to engage with the content, building your interpersonal skills, and fostering a professional attitude towards learning and scientific endeavour. You will also consider the processes of body donation and the ethical, legal and moral frameworks around which people donate their remains for anatomical learning, teaching and research. This unit contains assumed knowledge for entry into the graduate medical program at the University of Sydney, and is also suitable for graduate programs in dentistry, nursing, physical therapies, forensic sciences.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit Department of Medical Sciences
Credit points 6
Prerequisites
? 
24 credit points of 1000 level units
Corequisites
? 
None
Prohibitions
? 
MEDS2005
Assumed knowledge
? 

ANAT2008

Available to study abroad and exchange students

Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator Laura Lindsay, laura.lindsay@sydney.edu.au
The census date for this unit availability is 1 September 2025
Type Description Weight Due Length Use of AI
Practical exam
? 
Practical Exam
This will assess the practical components of this unit and will take place in the microscope labs using microscopes and slides as well as diagrams/images/photographs.
50% Formal exam period 1 hour AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed: LO6 LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Contribution Practical Attendance and Engagement
You will be required to upload to Canvas an aspect from each practical class. Details will be found in your practical notes.
5% Multiple weeks N/A AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Out-of-class quiz Early Feedback Task Early Feedback Task
#earlyfeedbacktask
0% Week 03 - AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3
In-class quiz Module 1&2 Theory quiz
This is an in-person closed book quiz covering all content from modules 1&2 (including tutorials)
30% Week 08 30mins AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
In-class quiz Module 3 theory quiz
This is an in-person closed book theory quiz covering all topics in module 3 (including tutorials)
15% Week 13 30mins AI allowed
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
early feedback task = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

  • Early Feedback Task - Canvas quiz, could contain MCQs and short answer questions. This is formative.
  • End of Module Quizzes - in person (during tutorial time), mix of MCQs and SAQs.
  • Participation and Engagement - submission of a selected question/activity to Canvas for each practical class. 
  • End of Semester Anatomy and Histology Practical Exam (during exam period): Assesses your ability to understand anatomical and histological content.
Detailed information for each assessment can be found on the ANAT2011 Canvas Page.

 

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

All assignments must be submitted by the due date and quizzes and exams attended when they are scheduled. Students are expected to manage their time and to prioritise tasks to meet deadlines. Assessment items submitted after the due date without an approved extension using a special consideration or special arrangement form or request will incur penalties. Failure to meet assessment deadlines will incur mark deductions of 5% of the maximum awardable mark available for every day past the due date (for electronic submissions, days late includes Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays). These deductions will continue for 10 calendar days, until the solutions for the assignment are released, or marked assignments are returned to other students. At that point the mark awarded will be zero. For example, on an assignment given a mark of 70/100, the penalty would be 5 marks if submitted up to 24 hours late, resulting in a final mark of 65/100. If the assignment is submitted 6 days late, the penalty would be 30 marks and the final mark would be 40/100. If the assignment is more than 10 days late, submitted after the solutions for the assignment are released, or marked assignments are returned to other students, the final mark will be 0/100.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Introductory GIT histology - terminology Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Introductory GIT Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Histological Techniques Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Week 02 Fundamentals of lower digestive system anatomy Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Overview of digestive system Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
A & H integrated digestive system Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 03 Skin Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Skin Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Skin TBL Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Week 04 Module 1 revision Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Blood, haematology and clinical aspects Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Week 05 Immune system histology Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Blood and immune system Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Week 06 Integrated A & H Neuro Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Integrated A & H Neuro Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Module 2 revision Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Week 07 Integrated A & H urinary system Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Integrated A & H of urinary system Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Urinary TBL Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 08 Module 1&2 Theory Quiz - Assessment Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Introductory andrology anatomy Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Introductory andrology histology Lecture (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
In person microscope assessment Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Week 09 Introductory andrology anatomy Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Cell and tissue interactions Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO6
Week 10 Introductory integrated gynaecological A & H Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Intro andrology histology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Week 11 Introductory embryology Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Intro gynaecological anatomy Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Reproduction TBL Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 12 Modelling embryology TBL Workshop (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3
Intro gynaecological histology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Module 3 revision Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Week 13 Revision Lecture (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Revision (non-compulsory) histology Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6
Revision (non-compulsory) anatomy Practical (2 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Module 3 Theory quiz - assessment Tutorial (1 hr) LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance is essential for successful completion of the course. A student who fails to show sufficient cause for absence from any part of the course may not be allowed to sit for the final or replacement examination in ANAT2011.

The University of Sydney Coursework Policy 2014 states: 
55 (2) A student enrolled in a unit of study must comply with the requirements set out in the faculty resolutions, award course resolutions or unit of study outline about undertaking the unit of study, including on matters such as: (a) attendance at and participation in lectures, seminars and tutorials; and (b) participation in practical work.
 
The Faculty of Science resolutions states:
9(1). Students are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of timetabled activities for a unit of study, unless granted exemption by the Associate Dean.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. To communicate in anatomical and histological language using a broad range of media.
  • LO2. To relate the 3-dimensional anatomical structure of organs and tissues to the 2-dimensional histological structure.
  • LO3. Understand the fundamental organisation and development of the human body from its gross structure to the cellular and intracellular levels.
  • LO4. To identify and relate fundamental structural organisation of digestive, urinary and reproductive systems.
  • LO5. To understand structural and functional relationships within the abdomen and pelvis.
  • LO6. To use the light microscope to interpret histological slides and understand how histological stains can be used to highlight features of interest.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Based on student feedback from 2024 we have simplified the assessments and opened Ed Discussion to allow peer-to-peer discussion

Work, health and safety

  • No eating or drinking is allowed in any laboratory under any circumstance. This includes all dry lab and wet lab spaces in the Anderson Stuart building and all dry lab and seminar rooms in the CPC.
  • Anatomy practical classes will be held in the Anatomy wet labs in the Anderson Stuart Building (F13) and there are specific respect and safety requirements that need to be understood and adhered to if the privilege of access into the Anatomy Laboratories and Wilson Museum of Human Anatomy is to be granted.
  • Students will not be allowed to enter any Anatomy Facility laboratory or the Wilson Museum of Human Anatomy until they have read and understood the Anatomy Act and the Anatomy Safety Policies offered through the “Our Expectations, Your Obligations” Quiz available on ANAT2011 Canvas.

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.