The effects of exercise on breathing and heart rate
I can plan and carry out an investigation into the effects of exercise on breathing rate or heart rate.
The effects of exercise on breathing and heart rate
I can plan and carry out an investigation into the effects of exercise on breathing rate or heart rate.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Identifying independent variable (amount of exercise) and dependent variable (heart rate or breathing rate).
- Identifying control variables (the person and the length of time spent exercising).
- The independent variable (amount of exercise) is categoric data and goes on the x-axis of a bar chart.
- The dependent variable (heart rate or breathing rate) goes on the y-axis of a bar chart.
- Using knowledge of cellular respiration to explain the results.
Keywords
Dependent variable - The factor that is being measured.
Independent variable - The factor that is being changed.
Breathing rate - The number of breaths per minute.
Heart rate - The number of heart beats per minute.
Control variable - A factor that needs to be kept the same to make the investigation valid.
Common misconception
Breathing is the same as respiration.
Be clear that breathing is the mechanical process to get oxygen in and carbon dioxide out. Whereas, respiration is the chemical process that provides energy for the cell.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which organ is part of the breathing (respiratory) system?
Q2.Mitochondria need and oxygen to carry out respiration.
Q3.The job of the heart is to pump around the body.
Q4.Match the blood cell to its function.
kill bacteria and viruses
carry oxygen around the body
Q5.True or false? Muscles need energy to relax.
Q6.Who has the best answer to why do people need to breathe?




Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1. variables need to be kept the same to make an investigation valid.
Q2.Match up the type of variables to their description when investigating the effect of the exercise on breathing rate.
dependent variable
independent variable
control variable
Q3.Order the statements to create a method to find your breathing rate after vigorous exercise.
Q4.Match up the variable to the axis the measurements should be plotted on when drawing a bar chart.
independent variable (amount of exercise)
dependent variable (heart rate or breathing rate)
control variable