Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will have a better understanding of the digestive system and how it works, as well as the role it plays in our bodies.
Materials and Prep
- Printed diagrams of the digestive system
- Colored pencils or markers
- Blank paper
- Access to a computer or tablet for research
- Prior knowledge of basic human anatomy
Activities
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Create a Digestive System Diagram:
Using the printed diagrams as a reference, draw your own diagram of the digestive system on a blank piece of paper. Label the different parts of the system, such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine.
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Research and Write:
Use a computer or tablet to research more about the digestive system. Write a short paragraph explaining how the digestive system works and why it is important for our bodies. Include at least three key facts in your paragraph.
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Design a Spy Meal:
Imagine you are a spy on a secret mission. Design a meal that would help you stay energized and focused during your mission. Think about the different nutrients your body needs and how they can be obtained from various food groups. Draw and label your spy meal on a separate piece of paper.
Third Grade Talking Points
- "The digestive system is a group of organs in our body that work together to break down food and absorb nutrients."
- "When we eat, the food goes through a process called digestion, where it gets broken down into smaller pieces and mixed with special substances in our body called enzymes."
- "The mouth is where digestion begins. We use our teeth to chew the food and our tongue to help move it around."
- "After we swallow, the food travels down a long tube called the esophagus and enters the stomach. The stomach helps break down the food further with its acids and muscles."
- "Next, the food moves into the small intestine, where most of the nutrients are absorbed into our bloodstream. The small intestine is very long, about 20 feet in adults!"
- "Finally, the remaining waste enters the large intestine, where water is absorbed and the waste is formed into solid stool. It then leaves our body through the rectum and anus."