Unit Overview

Description

This unit develops students' understanding of human musculoskeletal anatomy as it relates to movement, function and applied exercise science. Through integrated lectures, gross anatomy laboratories, and surface anatomy and muscle function practicals, students examine the organisation of the musculoskeletal system and its contribution to posture, movement and performance. The unit emphasises anatomical terminology, structural–functional relationships, and the interpretation of human movement using theoretical and practical approaches. Students develop skills in identifying anatomical structures, relating tissue and joint characteristics to movement capacity, and applying anatomical knowledge to functional tasks. Practical classes support the development of observational, palpation, analytical and laboratory-based skills, while reinforcing safe and respectful engagement with anatomical materials. By the end of the unit, students are expected to describe key anatomical structures, explain their functional significance, and apply this knowledge to exercise, sport and health contexts.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)On-campus

The timetable for this teaching period is not currently available. Please see the Important Dates page for the timetable release date and other key date information.

Outcomes

Students are able to (1) describe the structure and function of the human skeletal and muscular systems; (2) describe the biomechanical responses of bone, tendon and ligament tissue to loading and immobilisation; (3) locate, name and describe the function of major bones, joints, ligaments, muscles and peripheral nerves in the human body; and (4) explain how musculoskeletal structure and muscle function influence joint actions and human movement.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) anatomy theory examination; (2) a laboratory examination; and (3) a practical assessment. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Grant Landers and Dr Nat Benjanuvatra and Dr Kym Guelfi
Unit rules
Approved quota: 400—students enrolled in the Sport Science, Exercise and Health Extended Major, Sport Science Major and the Exercise and Health Major to be admitted first
Contact hours
lectures: 2 hours per week (average)
labs: 3 hours per week (average)
Note
Examining preserved human material is an integral and compulsory part of the practical work in this unit. An anatomy licence must be obtained via the unit coordinator if students are not studying ANHB1101 Human Biology I: Becoming Human concurrently. In addition, students require a white laboratory coat.
Texts

Ackland, T. et al. Applied Anatomy and Biomechanics in Sport, 2nd edn: Human Kinetics 2009
Ackland, T. SSEH1101 Gross Anatomy Laboratory Manual
Saladin, K. S. Anatomy and Physiology, 7th edn: McGraw-Hill 2015

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.