Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic structure of the skeletal system and how it supports the body.
Materials and Prep
- Printed images of the human skeletal system
- Blank paper and markers
Before starting this lesson, make sure you have a basic understanding of the human body and its different systems.
Activities
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Begin by discussing the importance of a strong structure in buildings and relate it to the human body. Ask the student to think about how a building stays upright and what gives it support.
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Show the printed images of the human skeletal system and explain that just like a building, our bodies have a structure called the skeletal system that provides support and protection. Discuss the different bones in the body and their functions.
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Have the student draw an outline of a human body on the blank paper and label the major bones they have learned about. Encourage them to be creative and color their drawing.
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Once they have finished their drawing, ask the student to explain the role of each bone they labeled in supporting and protecting the body.
Third Grade Talking Points
- "The skeletal system is like the framework of our body. It gives us shape and support, just like the beams and columns in a building."
- "Our skeleton is made up of many different bones. Some bones protect important organs, like our skull protects our brain."
- "The backbone, or spine, is a long row of bones that helps us stand up straight and protects our spinal cord."
- "Our ribcage protects our heart and lungs, just like a fence protects something valuable."
- "Our arms and legs have long bones called the humerus and femur. They are strong and help us move."