Outline

Overview

This unit presents the gross anatomy, functional histology, and physiology of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and urinary systems, along with the characteristics of body fluids and acid-base balance. Emphasis is placed on how these systems respond and adapt to exercise, and how structural and functional impairments can lead to disease. Laboratory classes include the study of human cadavers, and attendance is compulsory. Students that achieve a pass will gain professionally relevant foundational knowledge of anatomy and physiology in both healthy and pathological states. Students that achieve higher grades will demonstrate the ability to synthesize knowledge across body systems and develop well-reasoned solutions for clinical and exercise-related problems.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Department of Medical Sciences
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	BIOS2170
Assumed knowledge ?	None
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Jaimie Polson, jaimie.polson@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	End Semester Exam Multiple choice (MCQ) and short answer (SAQ). Paper Exam	45%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	Practical class quizzes small, regular quizzes conducted during practical classes/tutorials to assess understanding of recently covered topics	20%	Multiple weeks	10-15 min	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	On-line quizzes Small, regular quizzes conducted online to assess understanding of recently covered topics.	4%	Multiple weeks	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Week 2 quiz MCQ	1%	Week 02 Due date: 06 Mar 2026 at 23:55 Closing date: 06 Mar 2026	-	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Written test	In-semester test Multiple Choice Question (MCQ). Paper Exam	30%	Week 07 Due date: 16 Apr 2026 at 13:00	1 hour	AI prohibited
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

On-line quizzes: Each quiz will be available online for a limited time. Students will be advised when quizzes are available and must complete the quizzes within the period of availability. *Note that deadlines are referring to Sydney time.
In-class quizzes: Each quiz will be held during a scheduled practical class or tutorial. Students are required to complete each quiz during the class in which it is held.
In-semester test: This examination will cover body fluids, homeostasis and cardiovascular system (anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology).
End semester exam: This examination will cover respiratory system, urinary system and acid-base balance (i.e. the material that was not covered in the mid-semester exam).

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 very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

demonstrates an extensive knowledge and understanding of the concepts of the Body Systems: Structure and Function unit of study content including prescribed focus areas and broader context
displays an outstanding ability to describe and explain anatomy, physiology and pathophysiologyconcepts, including abstract ideas, clearly and accurately, and to apply the concepts to unfamiliar situations
applies a high level of critical thinking skills in developing appropriate solutions to problems involving a long sequence of related tasks
analyses, evaluates and extrapolates anatomy, physiology and pathophysiologydata effectively, identifies complex relationships, quantifies explanations and descriptions, and synthesizes information to draw conclusions
communicates succinctly, logically and sequentially using a variety of scientific formats

Distinction

75 - 84

demonstrates a thorough knowledge and understanding of the concepts of the Body Systems: Structure and Function unit of study content including prescribed focus areas and broader context
effectively communicates a detailed understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiologyconcepts using appropriate terminology and scientific formats, and applies the concepts to unfamiliar situations
analyses information given in written, tabular, graphical and diagrammatic forms and relates this to other relevant information
displays competence in manipulating information to solve problems involving a number of steps

Credit

65 - 74

demonstrates a sound knowledge and understanding of the concepts of the Body Systems: Structure and Function unit of study content including prescribed focus areas and broader context
describes concepts and information clearly in written, graphical and diagrammatic forms, and applies these concepts in familiar situations
demonstrates a broad ability to apply concepts to unfamiliar situations
displays proficiency in selecting relevant data from information given in written, tabular, graphical and diagrammatic form

Pass

50 - 64

demonstrates a basic knowledge and understanding of the concepts of the Body Systems: Structure and Function unit of study content including prescribed focus areas and broader context
uses simple anatomy, physiology and pathophysiologydefinitions, terms, diagrams and graphs to communicate understanding of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiologyconcepts
substitutes data from information given in written, tabular, graphical and diagrammatic form, and manipulates basic anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology data

Fail

0 - 49

demonstrates a limited or no knowledge and understanding of the Body Systems: Structure and Function unit of study content including prescribed focus areas and broader context
recalls elementary terminology related to some areas of anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology

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.

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	L1, Introduction to Body Systems	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 01	L2, Body Fluids and Homeostasis 1; L3, Body Fluids and Homeostasis 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	L4, Cardiovascular 1; L5, Cardiovascular 2; L6, Cardiovascular 3	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 02	Anatomy of the Heart	Practical (2 hr)
Week 03	L7, Cardiovascular 4; L8, Cardiovascular 5; L9, Cardiovascular 6	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 04	L10, Cardiovascular 7; L11, Cardiovascular 8; L12, Cardiovascular 9	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 04	Cardiovascular Functions	Practical (2.5 hr)
Week 05	L13, Respiration 1; L14, Respiration 2; L15, Respiration 3	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 05	Control of Blood Pressure	Workshop (2 hr)
Week 06	L16, Respiration 4; L17, Respiration 5; L18, Respiration 6	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 07	L19 cardiovascular overview	Lecture (1 hr)
Week 07	Respiratory Anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
Week 08	L20, Respiration 7; L21, Respiration 8; L22, Respiration 9	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 09	L23, Urinary System 1; L24, Urinary System 2; L25, Urinary System 3	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 09	Pulmonary Function Tests	Practical (2.5 hr)
Week 10	L26, Urinary System 4; L27, Urinary System 5; L28, Urinary System 6	Lecture (3 hr)
Week 10	Urinary Anatomy	Practical (2 hr)
Week 11	L29, Urinary System 7	Lecture (1 hr)
	Counter Current	Workshop (2 hr)
	Urinary Physiology	Tutorial (2.5 hr)
Week 12	L30, Acid-Base balance 1; L31, Acid-Base balance 2	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 12	Acid-Base balance	Tutorial (2.5 hr)
Week 13	L32, Respiratory/Urinary System Review;	Lecture (1 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Attendance: Students are expected to attend a minimum of 90% of timetabled activities for a Unit of Study.
Attendance will be recorded from week 1. Students enrolled in this unit should engage with and study all online content, as directed in the Canvas site, including the submission of any required formative tasks and completion of any asynchronous activities.
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 Medicine and Health resolutions states: 7(1) Students are required to attend at the correct time and place of any formal or informal examinations. Non-attendance on any grounds insufficient to claim special consideration or special arrangement will result in the forfeiture of marks associated with the assessment. Participation in a minimum number of assessment items may be included in the requirements specified
for a unit of study.

Practicals: Students must attend their own practical/tutorial at the time and place indicated. Students may not swap groups for their own convenience. Each tutor will have a list of students in the tutorial group and regular attendance checks will be made.
Those practical classes that have been moved to online sessions because of COVID should attend Zoom at the allocated time where possible. Recording of classes will be made available.

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

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. Describe the distribution of water in the body, the difference between intra- and extracellular fluid, the structure and function of the cell membrane, membrane transport mechanisms and homeostatic systems, including negative feedback, positive feedback & feedforward. Explain the significance of the autonomic nervous system and endocrine systems (eg. HPA axis) in feedback systems.
LO2. Describe the anatomy and organisation of the mammalian cardiovascular system, including the heart, blood vessels and lymphatic system, and relate structural organisation to function. Describe the physiological mechanisms underlying cardiac electrical activity, cardiac pumping, vascular resistance, blood flow and blood pressure, including their regulation by local, neural and humoral mechanisms, and the role of the microcirculation and lymphatic system in exchange and fluid balance.
LO3. Apply the learning covered in Outcome 2 to explain the cardiovascular changes that occur during exercise and the pathophysiology in common cardiovascular diseases
LO4. Describe the anatomy and organisation of the respiratory system, including the conducting and respiratory zones, and relate structure to function. Describe the physiological processes of ventilation, gas exchange and gas transport, including the roles of pressures, resistance and compliance in ventilation, ventilation-perfusion matching, haemoglobin, and the principles of partial pressures in gas exchange. Describe the control of ventilation, normal blood gas values, and the role of the respiratory system in regulating acid–base balance.
LO5. Apply the learning covered in Outcome 4 to explain the respiratory changes that occur during exercise and the physiological changes that occur in common respiratory diseases
LO6. Describe the anatomy and organisation of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra, and relate structure to function. Describe the histological structure and function of the nephron and the physiological processes underlying urine formation. Describe the process of micturition and the role of the pelvic floor muscles in continence. Describe the role of the urinary system in maintaining homeostasis, including the regulation of electrolyte composition, body fluid balance, blood volume, blood pressure and acid–base balance, and the endocrine functions of the kidney.
LO7. Describe the regulation of hydrogen ion concentration in the body, including buffering systems and the roles of the respiratory and urinary systems. Describe the relationship between carbon dioxide, bicarbonate and blood pH, normal blood pH values, and the physiological responses to changes in carbon dioxide and bicarbonate levels. Describe the terms acidosis, acidaemia, alkalosis, alkalaemia, respiratory acidosis, metabolic acidosis, respiratory alkalosis and metabolic alkalosis.
LO8. Apply the learning covered in Outcome 6 and 7 to explain the role of the urinary system in maintaining fluid and electrolyte homeostasis and acid–base balance during exercise, and how disturbances in renal endocrine functions in common kidney disorders contribute to altered blood composition and mineral balance.
LO9. Integrate learning from Outcome 2, 4, 6 and 7 to explain how acid–base balance is regulated through the coordinated actions of the cardiovascular, respiratory and urinary systems, and how the physiological changes that occur in common cardiovascular, respiratory and renal disorders can disrupt this regulation. Interpret and evaluate common acid–base disturbances based on underlying physiological mechanisms, including scenario-based prediction, blood gas confirmation, and assessment of compensation.

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
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 8.2.1. Identify anatomical structures as they relate to all body systems. 8.2.2. Describe the structural and operational processes of anatomical structures and their interrelationships. 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 8.2.1. Identify anatomical structures as they relate to all body systems. 8.2.2. Describe the structural and operational processes of anatomical structures and their interrelationships. 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 8.2.1. Identify anatomical structures as they relate to all body systems. 8.2.2. Describe the structural and operational processes of anatomical structures and their interrelationships. 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 8.2.1. Identify anatomical structures as they relate to all body systems. 8.2.2. Describe the structural and operational processes of anatomical structures and their interrelationships. 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 8.2.1. Identify anatomical structures as they relate to all body systems. 8.2.2. Describe the structural and operational processes of anatomical structures and their interrelationships. 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 8.2.1. Identify anatomical structures as they relate to all body systems. 8.2.2. Describe the structural and operational processes of anatomical structures and their interrelationships. 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.
	Accredited Exercise Scientist Professional Standards (2022) - 3.2.1. Describe the function, regulation and interaction of physiological systems relating to exercise. 3.2.2. Describe the individual and integrated physiological responses and adaptations to acute and chronic exercise under normal conditions, in different environments, and by external influences (e.g. ergogenic aids or technologies). 8.2.1. Identify anatomical structures as they relate to all body systems. 8.2.2. Describe the structural and operational processes of anatomical structures and their interrelationships. 9.2.1. Describe the function and relationship of physiological systems. 9.2.2. Describe the physiological functions of the broad range of human cells in signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, transport, excitability, transmission and homeostasis. 9.2.3. Describe the interaction effects of different physiological systems.

Responding to student feedback

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

On behalf of the teaching team, I thank previous students for their feedback. Student feedback is considered when planning the unit for the following year. Jaimie Polson, on behalf of the teaching team.

Additional information

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 Canvas

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

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

BIOS1170: Body Systems: Structure and Function

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

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