Unit1 Nat.Sci. Vocab.
Essential Vocabulary for this unit :
"Skeletal system":
1. Skeleton: The framework of bones that supports and protects the body.
2. Bone: A hard, rigid organ that makes up the skeleton.
3. Joint: The point where two or more bones meet, allowing movement.
4. Cartilage: A flexible connective tissue found in joints, providing cushioning and support.
5. Skull: The bony structure that protects the brain and forms the face.
6. Spine: The column of bones (vertebrae) that runs down the back, protecting the spinal cord.
7. Rib: A curved bone that protects the organs in the chest (thorax), like the heart and lungs.
8. Femur: The longest and strongest bone in the human body, located in the thigh.
9. Patella: Also known as the kneecap, a small bone that protects the knee joint.
10. Fracture: A break in a bone, usually caused by injury or accidents.
"Muscles"
1. Muscles: Strong tissues in our bodies that help us move.
2. Skeletal Muscles: Muscles that are attached to our bones and help us move our body.
3. Flex: To bend or move a body part.
4. Contract: When a muscle gets shorter and tighter.
5. Relax: To release tension and become less tense.
6. Voluntary Muscles: Muscles that we can control and move consciously.
7. Involuntary Muscles: Muscles that work automatically and we cannot control consciously.
8. Strain: An injury to a muscle due to overstretching or overworking it.
9. Stamina: The ability to sustain physical or mental effort for a long period of time.
10. Endurance: The ability to withstand physical or mental challenges for an extended period.
MUSCULO-SKELETAL SYSTEM
The human musculo-skeletal system, often referred to as the musculoskeletal system, is a complex network of bones, muscles, and connective tissues in our bodies that work together to provide support, stability, and movement. It plays a crucial role in allowing us to perform various physical activities and maintain our body's shape. Here's a simplified explanation suitable for 11-year-old pupils:
Bones: These are the hard structures in your body that make up your skeleton. They give your body its shape, protect important organs, and provide a framework for your muscles to attach to. For example, your skull protects your brain, and your ribcage shields your heart and lungs.
Muscles: Muscles are like the engines of your body. They can contract (get shorter) and relax (get longer) to produce movement. When your brain sends signals to your muscles, they work together to help you move your arms, legs, and other body parts. For instance, when you bend your arm to wave, your muscles are making that movement happen.
Joints: Joints are the places where two or more bones meet. They allow your body to bend, twist, and turn. Think about your knee joint; it lets you walk, run, and jump by allowing your leg to move back and forth.
Ligaments: Ligaments are tough, stretchy bands that connect bones to other bones at joints. They help keep your joints stable and prevent them from moving too far in the wrong direction. Imagine a rubber band holding two pieces of bone together at a joint.
Tendons: Tendons are strong cords that attach muscles to bones. They act like ropes, enabling your muscles to pull on your bones and make your body move. When you kick a soccer ball, your leg muscles use tendons to move your leg.
Cartilage: Cartilage is a smooth, rubbery tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints. It acts as a cushion and reduces friction between bones, allowing them to move smoothly. Your nose and the tops of your ears also contain cartilage.
Spine: The spine, also known as the vertebral column or backbone, is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae. It supports your body and protects the spinal cord, which is like a highway for messages between your brain and the rest of your body.
In summary, the musculoskeletal system is like the body's framework, allowing us to stand, walk, run, play, and do all sorts of activities. Bones, muscles, joints, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage work together to make it all possible.