Neurones and synapses
I can describe the structures and functions of neurones and the synapses between neurones.
- Year 10
- AQA
Neurones and synapses
I can describe the structures and functions of neurones and the synapses between neurones.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Neurones are specialised cells that transmit nerve impulses
- The common structures of neurones, including cell body and axon
- A myelin sheath on some neurones increases the speed of the nerve impulse
- Nerve impulses pass from one neurone to another across a gap called a synapse
- An impulse arriving at a synapse releases neurotransmitters that diffuse across the gap to receptors on the next neurone
Keywords
Neurone - A nerve cell which transmits electrical impulses between different parts of the body.
Axon - The part of a neurone which carries the signal.
Myelin sheath - A fatty coating on the neurone which insulates it.
Synapse - The junction between two neurones.
Neurotransmitter - A chemical transmitter which crosses the synapse and triggers the onward response.
Common misconception
There is usually a lot of confusion over the synapse and how the signal moves from electrical, to chemical, to electrical again. There are many new key words involved, which makes it even harder.
The synapse has been broken down into several stages with clear diagrams and carefully used key words. There are plenty of opportunities to practise using the terminology and explaining the process, including applying it to a real-world scenario.
Equipment
None required.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What are nerve cells called?
Q2.What is the role of the nervous system?
Q3.Which of the following are effectors?
Q4.Which of the following is not a stimulus?
Q5.Match the word to its meaning.
Q6.Put these in order to show how a message moves through the nervous system, starting with detecting the stimulus.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the part of the cell to its name.
Q2.Match the type of neurone to its function.
Q3.What sort of tissue is the myelin sheath made of?
Q4.What effect does having a myelin sheath have on nerve impulses?
Q5.What are the chemicals called that diffuse across the synapse?
Q6.Put these steps in order, to show how a nerve impulse passes from one neurone to another.
