Introduction to Physiology (Bio 321, Fall
2001)
Dr. Kevin Long, California State University
Unit 2: Cellular communication and the Nervous System
Grading: 86-100 A, 71-85 B, 55-70 C, and 40-54 D.
C Level (all must be done)
1. Attend lectures
2. Review material in text readings
3. 1 scheduled quiz {20pts}
4. 1 cumulative exam at end of unit {30pts}
5. Choose five review questions from Chapters
8, 9 and 10 all sections. In concise, well-written responses (at least
a few lines each), write the questions and your answers.
{20pts: 4 pts for each question}
B Level (Choose one) {15pts}
1. Design an experiment to test whether a new drug (Brand
X) can stop pain fibers from sending action potentials. Be specific
about predictions and interpretations!
2. Make a teaching chart explaining one particular neural
pathway in our bodies. It can be your favorite sensory system (vision,
hearing, touch, smell, taste, pain, proprioception) or motor pathway.
Be prepared to explain your chart to both layman and professionals.
3. Watch a movie or read a book which involves a biology
concept in this unit in the plot. Discuss the concept utilized and
whether it is accurately portrayed in the movie based on information
from class, library, and/or internet. (examples might be: Vertigo;
Spellbound; Rain Man; Mementos; just about any sci fi film; etc) (150-300
words)
4. Make a 3D model of the human brain or a neuron out
of clay or other material. Be prepared to point out major structures.
5. Discuss ways that our nervous system is like wiring
in a machine like house, car or computer. How are they different?
(150-300 words)
A Level (Choose one) {15pts}
1. Write a paper (150-300 words) using at least 2 references
on one of the following issues. Take a stand and support your opinion.
a. Neural stem cell transplants may be turn out to be
valuable in treating spinal chord injuries, degenerative brain diseases
and other traumas. Discuss the current state of research on neural
transplants and whether the work should be expanded to include embryonic
stem cell lines or other sources of neurons.
b. Much of what we know about physiology in general
and neurobiology specifically we have learned from use of animal models.
First, discuss the pros and cons of using animal models, carefully
avoiding the animal rights issue. Then, describe both sides of the
animal rights arguments and discuss possible impacts on research.
You do not have to give your opinion but it will not be held against
you either way in my class.
2. Choose your favorite disease or condition which involves
dysfunction of cellular communication. Discuss the characteristics
of the problem, and how physiologists are trying combat it. (150-300
words should do!)
3. Read the article "Fear itself" in the Wed. September
19th, 2001 quest section of the San Diego Tribune. After careful consideration,
answer the 5 questions at the end of the article. (Do not write lengthy
answers for the questions. The chart need not be a large teaching
chart).