The structure of muscles and joints is inherently linked with the function of the trunk and limbs. An example of this is seen in the trade-off between joint stability and mobility.

This assessment is related to the material covered in Week 1 to Week 5 (inclusive). There will be three parts to this question:

Part A: The trunk and spine

Part B: The shoulder

Part C: The pelvis and hip

Questions will be related to bone, muscle/joint anatomy, normal/abnormal human movement patterns, actions of joints/muscles, the effects of musculoskeletal conditions on movement, basic exercise prescription, and/or recommendations for improved movement efficiency.

Each part of the assessment is to be 300 to 400 words in length and you must use at least two peer-reviewed journal articles to support each answer. You may also include one (1) figure OR diagram OR table to support your answer. In-text referencing, and words in the figure, diagram, or table count towards your total word limit.

Questions will be made available via Moodle at the end of Week 1.

Grades for this assessment will be based on correctness of the answer; comprehension and use of supporting peer-reviewed journal articles; writing style (correct grammar, spelling, and reference formatting); and adherence to word count limits.

The structural anatomy of the human body underpins the performance of all human movement; thus, an understanding of the anatomy of the muscles and joints is fundamental to rehabilitation and sports performance. This assessment covers material from Week 1 to Week 7 (inclusive). In this practical station-based exam you will identify and describe anatomical structures of the musculoskeletal system for the trunk, upper quadrant, and lower quadrant on anatomical models, bones, and images.

The practical assessment is compulsory and you must achieve a minimum of 50% in order to pass the unit. Further details of the minimum pass requirement are in assessment criteria below. The station-based exam consists of approximately 25-30 stations set up around the room, each with one question. Some stations will have an identification-type question, while others may have a function-based question. After a set period of time, you will rotate to the next station and repeat this until you have been at all stations. There will be 1 student at each station at a time. You will be given an answer sheet on which to write your answers.

The practical assessment is closed book so the only things you will be allowed to have on you are pens (blue or black ink only), your answer sheet and ID (e.g. driver's license).

Structures will be tagged using pins or labels. Questions will cover the anatomy of muscles, bones and joints in the trunk, neck, back, and upper and lower limbs. 

Identifying sub-optimal movement patterns and their contributing factors is an important part of reducing injury risk and improving performance in sports and exercise. To accurately identify sub-optimal movements, a sound understanding of normal movement and the roles of various muscles and joints is required. Appropriate exercises are then often required to help an individual return to optimal movement and improve performance.

This assessment requires you to create an audiovisual presentation between 10 - 12 minutes duration. In the presentation you will identify and aim to correct a sub-optimal movement pattern. You will be provided with several videos on Moodle, each showing an individual simulating a movement with a common sub-optimal movement pattern.

To complete the assessment, you will be required to choose one (1) of the provided videos and record an audiovisual presentation which includes the following:

1) A description of the SUB-OPTIMAL movement pattern in one (1) of the videos provided on Moodle. Use supporting evidence to briefly explain why you consider this movement pattern to be sub-optimal.

2) Presentation of a complete movement analysis table for the OPTIMAL, or normal movement, which includes detailing movement name(s), plane of movement, joint action(s), muscle contraction type(s), prime mover(s), and muscle(s) involved. A template of the movement analysis table is provided on Moodle.

3) A description of one (1) possible muscle weakness that might contribute to the SUB-OPTIMAL movement you identified, and explanation of the role of that muscle in the OPTIMAL movement.

4) A rationale for one (1) exercise that you could provide to strengthen the muscle you identified as weak.

5) Video demonstration of you instructing a partner how to perform this exercise. Include in your demonstration:

a. The start and end position,

b. Instructions on how to complete the full exercise, including at least three (3) succinct verbal cues to ensure that your partner in the video can complete the exercise safely and effectively.

Your total video should be between 10-12 minutes duration. Use supporting evidence (i.e. peer-reviewed journal articles) to justify your responses throughout your presentation.

You will be assessed on your ability to identify a sub-optimal movement pattern, completeness and accuracy of your movement analysis table, correctness of weak muscle, appropriateness of exercise prescription, clarity of exercise demonstration, and use of appropriate supporting evidence throughout your presentation. Marks will also be allocated to presentation style (including use of Powerpoint, use of video, adherence to the time limit, and use of voice and gesture).