Why Do We Need a Tongue to Talk? Exploring Speech and Anatomy for Kids

Core Skills Analysis

Science / Biology

• Amelia learned to identify the tongue as an important part of human anatomy related to speech production.
• She developed curiosity about the role of physical structures in communication, prompting independent research.
• The activity encouraged exploration of the physiological mechanisms behind talking, linking physical function with language.
• Amelia practiced using digital tools (Google) for finding scientific information, enhancing research skills.

Information Literacy / Research Skills

• Amelia practiced formulating a question for online research, showing early inquiry skills.
• She engaged in accessing and evaluating digital content to find relevant explanations related to human biology.
• The activity introduced basic digital literacy, including trusting and verifying search results via Google.
• Amelia experienced self-directed learning, fostering confidence in seeking knowledge independently.

Tips

Encourage Amelia to document her findings by writing a short explanation or drawing diagrams of how the tongue helps with speech. To deepen understanding, experiment together with tongue movements while speaking different sounds, noting how it shapes pronunciation. Extend learning by exploring how other parts of the mouth and throat contribute to talking, possibly through educational videos or simple models. Finally, discuss the importance of questioning and researching as lifelong skills, helping Amelia build curiosity and critical thinking consistently.

Book Recommendations

• The Magic School Bus Explores the Senses by Joanna Cole: A fun and engaging exploration of human senses including how parts like the tongue contribute to sensation and speech.
• Your Tongue and Teeth (Your Body) by Robin Koontz: A clear introduction to the functions of the tongue and teeth in speaking and eating, suitable for young readers.
• How Your Mouth Works (Science Works) by Natalie M. Rosinsky: An age-appropriate guide explaining parts of the mouth, including the tongue, with simple diagrams and everyday examples.

Learning Standards

• Science - National Curriculum KS2 - Animals, including humans: Describe the functions of the parts of the digestive system and identify the different types of teeth in humans (Sc4/2B). Relates to understanding the tongue as part of the mouth's role in speech.
• English - Reading and Writing: Develops skills in researching and summarising information found online (ENG3/4a, ENG3/5a).
• Computing - Digital Literacy: Use technology purposefully to create, organise, store, and find information (IT2/1a).
• PSHE - Developing curiosity and independent learning through questioning and exploring new topics (PSHE3/1).

Try This Next

• Create a worksheet with diagrams of the mouth to label parts involved in talking, including the tongue, teeth, and lips.
• Write a short story or poem featuring a character who discovers how their tongue helps them speak.