Vaughn Next Century Learning Center

13330 Vaughn St. San Fernando, CA 91340

818-896-7461
Mrs. May P. Penarroyo
Room 231
mpenarroyo@myvaughncharter.com

Human Anatomy and Physiology

Course Description:
This course is designed to be an introduction to structure and function of the human body from
the cellular level to the homeostatic balance of the entire organism. It is also intended to be a
preparatory course for those interested in the medical professions. Students will take full
advantage of the Project Based Learning to gain an in-depth functioning knowledge of the
human body.

Course Methods:
In this course we will take a VERY student centered approach. The course will be driven by
student initiative and the NGSS. The expectations for student achievement, independence and
integrity will be very high.

Each semester will be devoted to 5-6 units. Each unit will have its own activities, discussions,
test and expert group presentation. Each unit will be given ample time for an in-depth group
examination.

In all facets of the course we will be working to develop the following 21st century skills:

-Professionalism: Students will display a high degree of honor and integrity, citizenship and
responsibility. These qualities may be evidenced by proper dress, work ethic, promptness,
attendance, respect and leadership.

-Technology Literacy: Students will be able to use digital technology, communication tools,
and/or networks appropriately to solve information problems in order to function in an
information society.

-Collaborative Skills: Students will be able to work with staff, faculty, community members,
and peers. Team members should discuss and work toward what they hope to accomplish to meet
individual and group goals.

-Critical and Inventive Thinking: Students will display flexible, creative, and critical thinking
in order to produce innovative works. Thinking must demonstrate resourcefulness, persistence,
curiosity, and risk taking.
 -Content Knowledge and Application: Students will be able to demonstrate proper use of the
content as directed by Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) to apply the knowledge
gained from the class and the projects assigned.

-Communication: Students will be able to speak and write with an awareness of audience and
purpose.

Grading and Evaluation Methods:

Each grading period will carry the same types of grades:

 Classwork/Homework – 20%
 Tests (quiz, unit test, final exam) – 20%
 Projects/Laboratory activities & Lab report – 60%

Grade Scale

A+ = 97.50-100.00 B- = 79.50-81.49 D = 61.50-67.49

A = 92.50-97.49 C+ = 77.50-79.49 D- =59.50-61.49
A- = 89.50-91.49 C = 72.50-76.49 F = 0.00-59.49
B+ = 87.50-89.49 C- = 69.50-71.49
B = 82.50- 86.49 D+ = 67.50-69.49

Attendance/Late Work:
The materials for this course will be available online. Only excused absences will be accepted
as reason for missing a deadline. A doctor’s note is needed.
Any assignment that is not turned in by its deadline will be get a zero credit.

Cheating:
Giving or receiving answers and copying (from a student, internet source, or text) are considered
cheating. Cheating results in an automatic 0 on the assignment. In addition, the parent/guardian
will be notified and the student(s) will receive a detention.
Course Calendar:

Date Activity
Introduction to Medical Terminology
Using anatomical language
03-07 Aug.
Using anatomical regions activity
Body System Poster
10-14 Aug.
Surgery & Suturing
17-21 Aug. Pathology & Autopsy
Mr. Potato Head Activity
24-28 Aug
Pickle Lab
Cells
31 Aug-04 Sep Homeostasis
07 Sep Labor Day
08-11 – Sep 04 Cytotoxicity
Tissues
14-25 Sep Histology Webquest
Integumentary System
28 Sep- 02 Oct Within My Skin PBL
05-09 Oct FALL BREAK
Skeletal System
12-16 Oct Skeletal System Activities
26-30 Oct Osteoporosis Case Study
Muscular System
02-06 Nov Muscular System Activities
11 Nov Veterans Day
09-13 Nov Chicken Wing dissection
Nervous System & Senses
16-20 Nov Nervous system Activities
25-27 Nov Thanksgiving Break
23-27 Nov Cranial Nerves Activities
30 Nov – 4 Dec Tingling Case Study
07-11 Dec Videos :
Lorenzo’s Oil

Dec. 17 Final Exam

Course Procedures:
Labs: We will do labs as much as possible. Students must pass the lab safety test and return their safety
contract signed by a parent or guardian to be able to participate in lab activities. Failure to follow safety
procedures (i.e. wearing safety goggles at all times) will result in a student losing their lab privileges.

Notebook and Binder: All notes (in Cornell format) will be written and kept in a notebook. All other
handouts, homework, and class work can be hole-punched and organized neatly with dividers in a 3 ring
binder.
Chapter/Unit Tests: Most Units will take place over the course of 4 weeks (give or take 1 week). Unit
Tests will be given at the end of a unit.

Homework: Students should expect to have homework most nights. Homework is the time for practice.
Therefore, THERE IS NO REASON TO COPY. COPIED WORK will be given a grade of “0”.

Office Hours Policy:

In college, your professors will typically hold limited “drop-in” office hours and it will be up to
you to arrange time to meet. Therefore, in 12th grade Physiology it is your responsibility to email
your instructors to set up an appointment. No-shows to an appointment you scheduled will result
in 2 demerits.

I expect you to behave as young adults and professional scientists. The consequences above
result from your CHOICE not to follow the rules. You are in control of your behavior &
education.
Additional Information:

May P. Penarroyo – mpenarroyo@myvaughncharter.com

Tel. # 818-896-7461 loc 7923
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I am excited to be working with your child and I want to provide them with the very best
experience. I am available to speak with you whenever you have any questions via
email and phone number: mpenarroyo@myvaughncharter.com – 818 896-7461 ext
7923. I want to keep an open line of communication throughout the year. I need your
help to get the best educational experience for your child.