Module manager: Dr Charlotte Haigh
Email: c.haigh@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
Normally A level Biology .PE or Chemistry or equivalent
FOBS1126
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module introduces the core concepts underpinning structure and function of human body systems, with an emphasis on how systems are structured, operate and interact. The idea that the environment, exercise or disease can disturb these systems will be introduced.
Learners should have a basic understanding of the physiological core concepts of structure and function, as well as homeostasis.
To explain these concepts using examples drawn from the anatomy and physiology of the main body systems, with deeper understanding of these concepts developed through illustrating how they may be altered pathologically, pharmacologically or by exercise.
On a weekly basis there will be an active learning session which will require learners to actively engage with the concepts and examples presented as pre-recorded screencasts prior to these sessions. The active learning session will allow for consolidation and discussion of the topics covered. Each week there will be a quiz to test understanding, and 2 problem solving case studies to engage with and submit as a part of a team.
1. Explain the physiological concepts of structure and function of human body systems including cardiovascular, nervous, respiratory and gastro intestinal.
2. Explain homeostasis, using examples drawn from the principal body systems and functions.
3. Appraise the physiological adaptions to these systems that occur during exercise and how these systems can be disturbed by disease.
One of the key aims of this module is to help learners to transition to a university-style approach to learning, giving them personal responsibility for organising their learning. They will be provided with resources to synthesise an understanding of the subject material and be able to discuss these in an active learning environment.
Learners will develop skills relating to teamwork, creative problem solving, integration of knowledge and communication throughout the module through engagement with team-discussions of case studies & evidence-based reports
To explain and promote understanding of the physiology of structure and function, and homeostasis, the following examples will be covered:
- The skeleton, gross anatomy and the musculoskeletal system;
- The brain, spinal cord and an introduction to neurobiology;
- The organisation and function of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems;
- The anatomy of the gastrointestinal system, and how this relates to the function.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Team Work | 2 | 5 | 10 |
| Lecture | 18 | 1 | 18 |
| Seminar | 1 | 1 | 13 |
| Seminar | 6 | 2 | |
| Independent online learning hours | 10 | ||
| Private study hours | 49 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 41 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
There is a 10 question quiz each week (MCQ format) covering content from that week for learners to gain formative feedback.
Formative case studies will give students peer and generic feedback. Engagement with this will be tracked.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| In-course MCQ | Online (OTLA) 1 hour- 40 questions | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 30/04/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team