Outline

Overview

This is an entry-level unit designed to give students an overview of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology of the body systems relevant for professional practice. The basic concepts of pharmacology will also be introduced to enable students to understand the action of drugs on each of the body systems as they are covered in this unit and in BIOS1158, Structure, Function and Disease B. Material will be presented in lectures, workshops and practical sessions. Students are expected to complete self-directed learning packages prior to some practical sessions. This unit includes laboratory classes in which human donor bodies are studied; attendance at such classes is compulsory. Students will have a fundamental knowledge of professionally relevant aspects of anatomy and physiology, and be able to apply their knowledge to solve problems or explain higher level phenomena.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Department of Medical Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Preethi Thiagarajan, preethi.thiagarajan@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 March 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	BIOS1155 Final exam Paper-based; in-person; Short answer and multiple choice questions.	35%	Formal exam period	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Topic Quiz 1-5 Written quiz; supervised, in-class; Weeks 4,6,7,10,12; MCQ/SAQ.	20%	Multiple weeks	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Our Expectations, Your Obligations quiz Students must obtain 100% in this compulsory anatomy laboratory induction.	0%	Week 01	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Early Feedback Task: Anatomy Fundamentals Early Feedback Task	0%	Week 03	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written test	BIOS1155 In-semester test Short answer and multiple choice questions.	25%	Week 08 Due date: 22 Apr 2026 at 11:00 Closing date: 22 Apr 2026	1 hour	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Anatomy Spot Test 1: Musculoskeletal anatomy Written practical exam; supervised, in-class (anatomy lab)	10%	Week 08 Due date: 20 Apr 2026 at 00:00	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Anatomy Spot Test 2: Thorax anatomy Written practical exam; supervised, in-class (anatomy lab)	10%	Week 13 Due date: 25 May 2026 at 00:00	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= 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

All assessments are compulsory.

Our Expectations, Your Obligations quiz: This is a mandatory online lab induction required for access into the Anderson Stuart anatomy laboratories and the Wilson Museum. Questions relate to the Anatomy Tutorials Protocols and Safety induction video. This quiz does not contribute to your final mark. However, The due date for this online quiz is 19/2/2026
Early Feedback Task (Anatomy Fundamentals): A written quiz based on the Foundations of Anatomy lectures and Anatomy Lab orientation. This task is mandatory. It does not contribute to your final mark. The quiz will be held at the beginning of the Week 3 (9/3/2026) anatomy practical class.
Topic quizzes: Five written quizzes will cover material presented in lectures. These are worth a combined total of 20% of the final mark. Each quiz will be held at the beginning of an anatomy practical class and will consist of multiple choice and short answer questions covering the following topics:
1. Upper limb anatomy (Week 4, 16/3/2026)
2. Lower limb anatomy (Week 6, 30/3/2026).
3. Axial (skull, vertebral column, thorax) anatomy (Week 7, 13/4/2026)
4. Respiratory system (Week 10, 4/5/2026)
5. Cardiovascular system (Week 12, 18/5/2026
Anatomy Spot Tests: Two written, in-class (anatomy labs) practical tests will cover material presented in anatomy practical classes. Worth a combined total of 20% of the final mark. Questions will include anatomical identifications and SAQ covering the following topics:
1. Musculoskeletal anatomy (Week 8, 20/4/2026)
2. Thorax anatomy (Respiratory and Cardiovascular systems) (Week 13, 25/5/2026);
In-semester Test: Questions (multiple choice and short answer) will cover the material presented in lectures on Musculoskeletal anatomy and pathophysiology . This assessment is worth 25% of the final mark.
Final exam: Questions (multiple choice and short answer) will cover material presented in lectures on the Respiratory and Cardiovascular systems and Principles of pharmacology. This assessment is worth 35% of the final mark.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

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 superior standard, a credit competent work demonstrating potential for higher study, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100	Mastery of topics showing extensive integration and ability to transfer knowledge to novel contexts; treatment of tasks shows an advanced synthesis of ideas; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is very well presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an outstanding level.
Distinction	75 - 84	Excellent achievement, consistent evidence of deep understanding and application of knowledge in medical science; treatment of tasks shows advanced understanding of topics; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is well-presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a superior level.
Credit	65 - 74	Confident in explaining medical science processes, with evidence of solid understanding and achievement; occasional lapses indicative of unresolved issues; treatment of tasks shows a good understanding of topic; work is well-presented with a minimum of errors; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a high level.
Pass	50 - 64	Satisfactory level of engagement with and understanding of topic; some inconsistencies in understanding and knowledge of medical science; work is adequately presented, with some errors or omissions, most criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an adequate level.
Fail	0 - 49	Unsatisfactory achievement and engagement with the medical science discipline; inadequate understanding or fundamental misunderstanding of topics; most criteria and learning outcomes not clearly or adequately addressed or achieved; lack of effort/involvement in the unit.

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.

Learning support

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

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Foundations of anatomy L1 & L2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Learning anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
Week 02	Musculoskeletal anatomy L1	Lecture (1 hr)
	Musculoskeletal anatomy L2 & L3	Lecture (2 hr)
	Anatomy Lab Orientation	Practical (2 hr)
Week 03	Musculoskeletal anatomy L4	Lecture (1 hr)
	Musculoskeletal anatomy L5 & L6	Lecture (2 hr)
	Upper Limb anatomy (bones, joints)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 04	Musculoskeletal pathophysiology L1 & L2	Lecture (2 hr)
	Upper limb anatomy (muscles, nerves, blood vessels)	Practical (2 hr)
	Review of Early Feedback Task	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 05	Musculoskeletal pathophysiology L3 & L4	Lecture (2 hr)
	Lower limb anatomy (bones/joints)	Practical (2 hr)
	Review of UL anatomy + quiz feedback	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 06	Thorax: Respiratory system L1 & L2	Lecture (2 hr)
	Musculoskeletal pathophysiology L5	Lecture (1 hr)
	Lower limb anatomy (muscles, nerves, blood vessels)	Practical (2 hr)
Week 07	Thorax: Respiratory system L3 & L4	Lecture (2 hr)
	Skull, vertebral column, and thorax anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
	Review of LL anatomy + quiz feedback	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 08	Review of axial anatomy & MSk pathophysiology + quiz feedback	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 09	Thorax: Respiratory system L5 & L6	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Thorax: Cardiovascular system L2 & L3	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Thorax: Cardiovascular system L4 & L5	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 13	Principles of pharmacology L1 & L2	Lecture (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Anatomy practical class attendance is compulsory. Students must attend the practical class at the time and place indicated.

Anatomy practical class requirements:

Students are required to bring their student card (name holders will be provided), and to scan the QR code outside the Anatomy laboratories to register their attendance.
Students are required to provide their own laboratory coats (compulsory) and facemasks/safety glasses (not required but may be worn if preferred).
Students need to bring printed laboratory notes (downloaded from Canvas) for use during the class.

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.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed through the Library’s reading list system, available on Canvas.

Learning outcomes

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. Use anatomical and directional terminology appropriately.
LO2. Understand the ethics of working with human body donor specimens.
LO3. Understand the normal gross and sectional anatomical structure, basic physiology and common or significant pathology of the musculoskeletal system and apply knowledge to interpret structures in images created using common modalities such as radiographs, ultrasound, CT and MRI.
LO4. Understand the normal gross and sectional anatomical structure, basic physiology and common or significant pathology of the respiratory system and apply knowledge to interpret structures in images created using common modalities such as radiographs, ultrasound, CT and MRI.
LO5. Understand the normal gross and sectional anatomical structure, basic physiology and common or significant pathology of the cardiovascular system and apply knowledge to interpret structures in images created using common modalities such as radiographs, ultrasound, CT and MRI.
LO6. Understand the fundamental principles of pharmacology, be able to explain the actions, adverse reactions and interactions of medications on the human body, and explain drug scheduling, the Poisons Act and the responsibilities of health professional.

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
Learning outcomes

Alignment with Competency standards

Outcomes	Competency standards
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.a. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice. 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment.
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment. Domain 2.1.f. Apply knowledge of the Australian healthcare system to practice. Domain 2.1.g. Practice the basic principles underpinning bio-ethics in medical radiation practice and recognise and respond appropriately to ethical issues encountered in practice.
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.a. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice. 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment. 1.1.c. Identify anatomical structures and physiological processes, injuries and diseases of the human body in medical images.
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.a. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice. 1.1.c. Identify anatomical structures and physiological processes, injuries and diseases of the human body in medical images. 1.10.c. Apply knowledge of cross-sectional anatomy, embryology, pathophysiology, haemodynamic and sonographic appearances of normal and abnormal anatomy.
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.a. Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice. 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment. 1.1.c. Identify anatomical structures and physiological processes, injuries and diseases of the human body in medical images.
	Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice - 1.1.b. Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment. 1.8.a. Apply the principles of safe and effective use of medicines to practice. National Safety and Quality Health Service - 4. Medication Safety Standard

National Safety and Quality Health Service -

Competency code	Taught, Practiced or Assessed	Competency standard
4		Medication Safety Standard

Responding to student feedback

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

We thank the class of 2025 for their thoughtful and encouraging feedback. Many of the suggestions have been incorporated into the 2025 Unit of Study. Practical classes (and helpful tutors) continued to be popular, consolidating what was presented in lectures. Feedback: Students found the personalised feedback on Canvas helped focus their learning - we will continue to have this available via the 'Assessment Feedback' link on the Home page. Summative assessments: The number of small continuous assessments are 5. Continuous assessment was considered important by many students to help them engage with content throughout the semester. The worksheets are to focus more on the material covered in lectures. These are worth a combined total of 20% of the final mark. Two small practical exams (anatomy spot tests), worth a combined total of 20% of the final mark will be conducted. This has also enabled us to reduce the weighting of the In-semester and Final exams. Formative assessments: Canvas practice quizzes will continue to be available to allow students to practice for the worksheets and the formal In-semester and Final exams using past exam questions. Mini-spot tests will be available during anatomy practical classes to help students become familiar with this style of assessment. The online booking system for one-on-one meetings: This will be continued and extended to make it easier for people to book a time to discuss issues throughout the semester, not just following assessments. BIOS1155 Teaching Team.

Additional information

Canvas

Work, health and safety

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 Canvas.
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.
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.
A laboratory coat, enclosed shoes and latex/nitrile gloves must be worn in anatomy wet laboratories.
Use of any electronic devices (including phones, laptops, tablets) in the anatomy laboratories is prohibited.
Long hair needs to be tied back.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

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

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

BIOS1155: Structure, Function and Disease A

Semester 1, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Alignment with Competency standards

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links