The functions of teeth
I can explain the simple functions of the different types of human teeth.
The functions of teeth
I can explain the simple functions of the different types of human teeth.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Teeth are part of the human digestive system.
- Different types of teeth have different functions, but work together to break down food to travel through the body.
- Incisors are sharp and flat, and are used to cut and bite food.
- Canines are sharp and more pointed, and are used to rip and tear food.
- Molars are wide and bumpy, and are used to chew and grind food.
Keywords
Digestive system - The digestive system is all the organs in the body that break down and digest food.
Functions - The tasks or jobs that a thing has are its functions.
Incisors - Incisors are teeth that are used to bite and cut food.
Canines - Canines are teeth that are used for tearing and ripping food.
Molars - Molars are teeth that are used for grinding up and chewing food.
Common misconception
Children may think that all teeth are the same and that they perform the same job to break down food in exactly the same way.
Eating a few different types of food (Task A) will help children to see for themselves which teeth they are using and what they are actually doing to break down food in different ways.
Equipment
Samples of food to try - soft bread or a banana, small apples, crusty bread (baguette). Access to everyday objects to represent different teeth.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
wide, flat but bumpy
sharp and pointed
sharp and flat
Exit quiz
6 Questions
