Objective
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the basic concepts of chemistry as they relate to anatomy.
Materials and Prep
- Pen and paper
- Internet access
- Science textbook (optional)
No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.
Activities
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Research the role of atoms and molecules in the human body. Write a short paragraph explaining their importance in maintaining various bodily functions.
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Create a model of a molecule using everyday objects. Choose a molecule that is important for human anatomy (e.g., water, glucose, oxygen). Label the different atoms and their bonds.
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Watch a video or read an article about the pH scale and its significance in the human body. Write down three examples of substances that are acidic, neutral, and basic, and explain how pH affects their function in the body.
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Research the concept of chemical reactions and their role in digestion. Write a step-by-step explanation of how food is broken down in the body, including the enzymes involved and the chemical reactions that occur.
Seventh Grade Talking Points
- "Chemistry is the study of matter and how different substances interact with each other."
- "Atoms are the building blocks of matter. They are incredibly small and make up everything around us, including our bodies."
- "Molecules are formed when atoms join together. They can be simple, like water, or complex, like proteins."
- "The human body relies on various molecules to function properly. For example, proteins are essential for muscle growth and repair."
- "The pH scale measures how acidic or basic a substance is. It ranges from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Our body maintains a specific pH level to ensure proper functioning."
- "Chemical reactions occur when substances interact with each other, resulting in the formation of new substances. Digestion is an example of a complex chemical reaction that happens in our body."
- "Enzymes are special proteins that speed up chemical reactions in our body. They play a crucial role in breaking down food into smaller molecules for absorption."