The Nervous System
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Chapter 7: The Nervous System
The nervous system is the body’s fast-acting master control center. It monitors changes inside and outside the body, integrates sensory input, and quickly generates an appropriate feedback response. Working together with the slower-acting endocrine system, which is the body’s second most important regulating system, the nervous system is able to constantly regulate and maintain homeostasis within narrow limits that are neces-sary for proper physiological functioning. This chapter looks at both the structural and functional classifications of the nervous system, first separately and then as an integrated whole, to help students conceptualize the complexity of this system.
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:
7-1 List the general functions of the nervous system.
7-2 Explain the structural and functional classifications of the nervous system.
7-3 Define central nervous system and peripheral nervous system, and list the major parts of each.
7-4 Describe the structures and functions of neurons and neuroglia.
7-5 Describe the general structure of a neuron, and name its important anatomical re-gions.
7-6 Describe the composition of gray matter and white matter.
7-7 Classify neurons according to structure and function.
7-8 List the types of general sensory receptors and describe their functions.
7-9 Describe the events that lead to the generation of a nerve impulse and its conduction from one
neuron to another.
7-10 Define reflex arc, and list its elements.
7-11 Identify and indicate the functions of the major regions of the cerebral hemispheres,
diencephalon, brain stem, and cerebellum on a human brain model or diagram.
7-12 Name the three meningeal layers, and state their functions.
7-13 Discuss the formation and function of cerebrospinal fluid and the blood–brain barrier.
7-14 Compare the signs of a CVA with those of Alzheimer’s disease; of a contusion with those of a
concussion.
7-15 Define EEG, and explain how it evaluates neural functioning.
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.
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