The Digestive System
Anatomy
Embedded Files
Literacy / Driving Question Board Connections
Nonfiction Science Literacy Resources
Graphic Organizers / Thinking Maps
Driving Question Boards
Multilingual Learner Language Expectations
Chapter 14: The Digestive System
The digestive system chapter is divided into two distinct parts. Part I delves into the anatomy and physiology of the digestive system. This portion is the easier of the two parts for students to learn, since students generally are fascinated by the workings of their digestive system. Part II deals with the nutritional and metabolic aspects of diges-tion. Because these biochemical concepts are often difficult to visualize, as they are molecular pathways, this is often the area students find most confusing.
Unit Standards
What is the NGSS & 3 Dimensional Science Learning and Why is it Important?
Science Practices - Disciplinary Core Ideas - Crosscutting Concepts
HS-LS1-1: Genes, Proteins, and Tissues
Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins which carry out the essential functions of life through systems of specialized cells.
Clarification Statement: none
Boundary Statement: Assessment does not include identification of specific cell or tissue types, whole body systems, specific protein structures and functions, or the biochemistry of protein synthesis.
HS-LS1-2: Interacting Body Systems
Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms. (Systems and System Models)
Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on functions at the organism system level such as nutrient uptake, water delivery, and organism movement in response to neural stimuli. An example of an interacting system could be an artery depending on the proper function of elastic tissue and smooth muscle to regulate and deliver the proper amount of blood within the circulatory system.
Boundary Statement: Assessment does not include interactions and functions at the molecular or chemical reaction level.
HS-LS1-3: Feedback Mechanisms and Homeostasis
Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis. (Stability and Change)
Clarification Statement: Examples of investigations could include heart rate response to exercise, stomate response to moisture and temperature, and root development in response to water levels.
Boundary Statement: Assessment does not include the cellular processes involved in the feedback mechanism.
Learning Objectives / Career Connections
By the end of this chapter, students should be able to:
14-1 Name the organs of the alimentary canal and accessory digestive organs, and identify each on an
appropriate diagram or model.
14-2 Identify the overall function of the digestive system as digestion and absorption of foodstuffs, and
describe the general activities of each digestive system organ.
14-3 Explain how villi aid digestive processes in the small intestine.
14-4 List the accessory digestive organs, and describe the general function of each.
14-5 Name the deciduous and permanent teeth, and describe the basic anatomy of a tooth.
14-6 Describe the composition and functions of saliva.
14-7 Name the main digestive products of the pancreas and of the liver.
14-8 List and describe the six main activities of the digestive system.
14-9 Describe how foodstuffs in the digestive tract are mixed and moved along the tract.
14-10 Describe the function of local hormones in digestion.
14-11 List the major enzymes or enzyme groups involved in digestion, and name the foodstuffs on which
they act.
14-12 Describe the mechanisms of swallowing, vomiting, and defecation.
14-13 Name the end products of protein, fat, and carbohydrate digestion.
14-14 Define microbiota, microbiome, and colitis.
14-15 Define nutrient and kilocalorie.
14-16 List the six nutrient categories. Note important dietary sources and their main cel-lular uses.
14-17 Define metabolism, anabolism, and catabolism.
14-18 Recognize the uses of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in cell metabolism.
14-19 Describe the metabolic roles of the liver.
14-20 Explain the importance of energy balance in the body, and indicate consequences of energy
imbalance.
14-21 List several factors that influence metabolic rate, and indicate each one’s effect.
14-22 Describe how body temperature is regulated.
14-23 Name important congenital disorders of the digestive system and significant in-born errors of
metabolism.
14-24 Describe the effect of aging on the digestive system.
Using ChatGPT to find local Colorado Phenomena
Use the following prompt, adjust accordingly. "I am a high school science teacher looking for a local Colorado phenomena to address NGSS standard (enter standard you are looking for... example HS-LS1-6)"
Career Connections
Connecting what students are learning to careers not only deepens their engagement in school but also helps them make more informed choices about their future. Browse the following related career profiles to discover what scientists really do on the job and what it takes to prepare for these careers. For additional profiles visit your Year at a Glance Page.
Hands On, Minds On Connections
Hands-On Labs / Lab Safety
St Vrain Science Center
Simulations
Essentials of Human Anatomy & Physiology
GIZMOS
Nearpod Lessons / Activities / Videos
LabXchange Lessons / Activities / Videos
Page updated
Report abuse