BACKGROUND:
There are many systems in the human body, and each has a
different function and most work together to make the body work. Different authors separate the
body systems
into varying groups, so use your judgment on how you wish to present the
material. The table below summaries the major systems that
we recommend for small children.
In lab students will investigate their circulatory systems.
|
SYSTEM
|
FUNCTION/PARTS
|
|
skeletal-muscular (bones and muscles)
|
protects organs, enables movement, skeleton, muscles
|
|
circulatory (blood)
|
moves fluids in our bodies through veins and arteries, heart, capillaries
(this system also includes lymphatic fluids, but not
discussed until later grades) |
|
renal or excretory (urea and fecal matter)
|
controls water balance; bladder, urinary tract
|
|
endocrine (hormones)
|
regulates most of body functions using glands
|
|
digestive (food)
|
converts food to energy, stomach, mouth
|
|
nervous (nerves)
|
gathers information, controls most body activities
|
|
respiratory (lungs)
|
breathing, lungs
|
PROCEDURE:
- Go over some of these systems with students
so they can become familiar with their various functions. Use the table
above to discuss with students the function of the various systems in
the body.
- Students should use the Human Body Placemats to
find the major parts of the system. The important part is for students
to hear and say the words. Do not have students memorize each system.
- Emphasize the circulation system as that is the system they
will investigate in lab.
|
