human anatomy

the four systems for eighth grade

high jumper chalk drawing

the biped leg model

In eighth grade anatomy, it is all about RELATIONSHIPS and GROWTH. We discovered the interconnected network of systems between the skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. To function at our optimum level, we must coordinate the workings of the body. A notable exercise the students engaged in was the Quadruped Game. While ambulating as a quadruped, they had to perform tasks such as explore the forest floor for food and to watch out for and outrun potential predators! This led us to hypothesize about theories why human evolved into bipeds. From there we discussed the angle of joints and the muscles that enable us to stand in an upright manner. Along with the model above, it was a great way to compare the animal world with the human world. The model proved very useful and allowed for a dramatic demonstration on how the elasticity of muscles act on the rigidity of bones to allow us to stand upright.

For the nervous system, I created a table that matched 8 parts of the brain with specific functions of each of those parts, and discussed how all the parts must act in concert. The parts and their functions (not exclusive) are:

Meninges - PROTECTION

Cerebrum - CREATIVITY, REASONING, and COGNITION

Cerebellum - LOCOMOTION and COORDINATION

Limbic - INSTINCTS and EMOTION 

Hypothalamus - CHEMOREGULATION

Cerebral Stalk - CRANIAL SENSATION and AUTOREGULATION

Spinal Cord - DISTRIBUTION

Spinal Nerves - PERIPHERAL SENSATION

The fourth system we discussed was the reproductive system. We reviewed the eight-petal flower of Biology/Biography, and touched on fetal development and maternal health.