Transport and exchange surfaces in humans
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Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Biological molecules and enzymes, where they explored the roles of molecules in cellular processes. It deepens their understanding by examining how the human body transports substances like gases and nutrients through specialised exchange surfaces, such as the lungs and intestines. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Coordination and control: the human nervous system, where they will apply their knowledge to explore how the body regulates these processes, emphasising the integration of transport and control mechanisms.
Prior knowledge requirements
- [Y6] The basic functions of the heart, blood vessels and blood of the human circulatory system.
- Humans are multicellular organisms – they are made up of millions of living cells.
- Cells need to be supplied with nutrients including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and water for growth and repair.
- Cells need to be supplied with oxygen and glucose for cellular respiration to provide energy for life processes.
- Nutrients, glucose and water are absorbed from the digestive system.
- Oxygen is absorbed from air in the lungs, which are part of the gas exchange system.
- Particles of substances move by diffusion into and out of cells through selectively-permeable cell membranes.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit builds on pupils’ prior learning from Biological molecules and enzymes, where they explored the roles of molecules in cellular processes. It deepens their understanding by examining how the human body transports substances like gases and nutrients through specialised exchange surfaces, such as the lungs and intestines. This prepares pupils for the next unit, Coordination and control: the human nervous system, where they will apply their knowledge to explore how the body regulates these processes, emphasising the integration of transport and control mechanisms.
Prior knowledge requirements
- [Y6] The basic functions of the heart, blood vessels and blood of the human circulatory system.
- Humans are multicellular organisms – they are made up of millions of living cells.
- Cells need to be supplied with nutrients including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and water for growth and repair.
- Cells need to be supplied with oxygen and glucose for cellular respiration to provide energy for life processes.
- Nutrients, glucose and water are absorbed from the digestive system.
- Oxygen is absorbed from air in the lungs, which are part of the gas exchange system.
- Particles of substances move by diffusion into and out of cells through selectively-permeable cell membranes.
Biology
Transport and exchange surfaces in humans
This unit covers the human circulatory system, its link to the gas exchange system, and the adaptations of the heart, blood vessels, and blood components. It explains transport mechanisms like diffusion, osmosis, and active transport, and the need for exchange surfaces in multicellular organisms.
7 lessons in unit
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