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Year 10 - Physical education

Bones and structure of the skeleton

Anatomy and physiology: the musculoskeletal system

Unit Summary

This unit will examine the structure and function of both the skeletal and the muscular systems. It includes locating major bones and muscles before defining and analysing what movements are possible at different joints.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to locate the major bones in the human body and identify the functions of the skeletal system.

Key Notes

  • Anatomy and physiology is the study of the structure of the body and how it functions.
  • The axial skeleton is a structural framework that contains the cranium, vertebrae, ribs and sternum.
  • The appendicular skeleton contains the bones of the upper and lower limbs, the scapula, clavicle and pelvis.
  • Muscles attach to bones and work together to create movement.
  • Bones protect vital organs, produce red blood cells and store minerals.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • anatomy: the branch of science concerned with the physical structures of the body
  • physiology: the study of how the human body works or functions
  • musculoskeletal: a combination of the muscular and skeletal system comprising of muscles, bones, joints and connective tissues
  • skeleton: the structural frame that supports the body and is made up by a collection of bones
  • joint: a place where two or more bones meet (articulate)

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Mixing up the different body systems and terminology used for each (for example, not realising the cardiorespiratory system refers to the heart and lungs).

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Anatomy and physiology is the study of the structure of the body and how it functions. The axial skeleton is a structural framework that contains the cranium, vertebrae, ribs and sternum.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'anatomy'

the branch of science concerned with the physical structures of the body.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Mixing up the different body systems and terminology used for each (for example, not realising the cardiorespiratory system refers to the heart and lungs). Correction: Ensure pupils understand that muscular means muscles, skeletal means bones, cardio means heart, vascular means blood vessels and respiratory means lungs.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 10 Physical education guide library.