Skeletal System Assessment

Introduction

    These self assessment exams incorporate the material from all of the skeletal systems learned in the laboratory portion of comparative anatomy. Please do not rely on these quizzes to make up for the knowledge gained by studying and recognizing the key components of the skeletal structures. Also, these assessments should be used solely as an aid to assist you in preparing for your exam. A high score on the assessments indicates that you have the ability to recognize specific skeletal structures and have some understanding of the evolutionary changes in the skeleton over time. Keep in mind that these assessments will not be timed whereas the actual lab practical will.

Skull

    The skull assessment incorporates skeletal structures from dogfish shark (Squalus), mudpuppy (Necturus), and the cat (Felis).  The assessment also includes evolutionary and functional questions that are related to the material seen in lecture.  Hopefully this will help you improve your overall understanding of the comparative anatomy and physiology of the different vertebrate taxa.

Assessment of the skull

Axial

    The axial assessment will test you over sternum, ribs, and vertebrae of the Squalus, Necturus, and Felis. Questions about embryological development, evolutionary change of structures, and function are included. Hopefully this will help you improve your overall understanding of the comparative anatomy and physiology of the different vertebrate taxa.

Assessment of the axial skeleton

Appendicular

    The appendicular skeleton assessment covers the most important structures of the pectoral and pelvic girdle of Squalus, Necturus,Terrapin, Perca, Felis and Aves. This assessment contains a lot more information than the skull and axial skeleton, which reflects the importance of this system. The assessment also contains questions about development, function, and evolutionary trends of these structures.