Today, we began our study of the human digestive system, starting with the impressive length of the small intestine. We learned about mechanical and chemical digestion, and how both types begin in the mouth. Then, we did a little digestion ourselves. By holding a saltine cracker in the mouth for 60 seconds without chewing, they were able to see that chemical digestion begins with saliva, and then we added in mechanical digestion (chewing) and could see how they work together. We continued to explore digestion--simulating by using a potato masher to act as molars, ziplock bags for the stomach with soda as the acid, nylons for the intestines to demonstrate how water and nutrients are removed from the food at that stage for the body to use. We walked through the various steps of digesting a peanut butter sandwich, from beginning to end (ask them about the end--it was appropriately gross!) As I demonstrated the different stages of digestion, and gave them some of the facts from the above chart, they filled out their diagram of the digestive system, which was sent home with them so they can complete it if desired. The more they learn and study the various organs and areas that help break down their food, the more fun our walk-through digestive system will be next week!
Videos: Human Body Systems, Amoeba Sisters This is a good overview of the different human body systems, some of which we'll be studying. The Magic School Bus: For Lunch Always fun to revisit the Magic School Bus! Books: The Gas We Pass This topic came up in class and while this book is aimed at a younger audience, it does explain where gas comes from and might be of interest. It's available at the Livermore library. You Wouldn't Want to Live without Poop Also available at the Livermore Library, the You Wouldn't Want to series is one we've enjoyed and this one takes a look at digestion and all the important aspects of this waste product. Activities: Model the Length of the Digestive System I had a sample model available in class, but it might be fun to measure out your own. How Fast Does Bile Breakdown Fat? Try out this simulation to explore how the body breaks down our food.
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May 2020
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