Category 3A within foundational concept 3 of the Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems Section of the 2015 MCAT exam primarily focuses on the structure as well as the functions of both the nervous and endocrine systems. Category 3A also examines how said systems work in concert to coordinate the responses of other human systems to external and internal stimuli.
Overview of Foundational Concept 3, Category 3A
According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, category 3A specifically focuses on the following subject matter:
- Endocrine System Structure
- Endocrine System Function
- Endocrine System Aspects
- Nervous System Structure
- Nervous System Function
- Nervous System Aspects
- Integration of the Nervous and Endocrine Systems
- Structure of Nerve Cells
- Function of Nerve Cells
Also via the AAMC, the following topics and subtopics for category 3A within foundational concept 3 include:
Photo: Association of American Medical Colleges
As you can see if you’ve reviewed other foundational concepts and their content categories, category 3A is not nearly as expansive or comprehensive. Still, a portion of the 59 questions within the Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems Section will be dedicated to category 3A.
There is no set timetable designated to finish category 3A, but you have 95 minutes in all to complete the section.