Skin structure and functions

• Anatomy and physiology
• Further Education (Key Stage 5)

Skin structure and function re-cap.

Today, we are going to perform science experiments to understand the functions of the skin.

Differentiate and name the three primary layers of the skin.

Describe the main functions of each layer.

Explain the Role of Skin Appendages.

Understand their functions in maintaining skin health and regulating body temperature.

Brainstorm

In your groups, write down your current knowledge/understanding of the following key words;

Thermoregulation - Ther-mo-reg-you-lay-shun

Stratum

Micro-organism

Protection

Key word task

Write one sentence for each key word used in the previous slide.  How do these words link with the skin structure and functions?

Skin structure and functions

Structure and function of the skin - Task 1

Structure:

Draw and label the structure

E.G ; Sebaceous gland (draw  image here)

Describe the process that connects the structure and function: 

The sebaceous gland secretes a substance called sebum.  It is found in the dermis of the skin.

Function: Describe the function

Produces sebum which lubricates the surface of the skin and hair 

The sebaceous gland secretes sebum which lubricates the surface of the skin and hair.

The arrector pili muscle is attached to the wall of the hair follicle.  This muscle contracts, which causes the hair to stand on end.  This causes goose bumps and traps a layer of warm air close to the surface of the skin which helps keep the body warm. 

The hair shaft is the visible part of the hair on the surface of the skin. 

Hair follicle houses the hair.

Sweat gland excretes waste products in the form of sweat and helps regulate body temperature. 

Re-cap task

In your groups - draw and label a cross section of the skin to include the skin layers and appendages.

State their functions and explain how these contribute to the functions of the skin.  

What can recall about the structure of the skin?

Explain the difference between the Epidermis skin and the Dermis

Which layer of the epidermis is characterized by desmosomes and keratin filaments?

1. Stratum corneum
2. Stratum granulosum
3. Stratum basale
4. Stratum spinosum

Which layer of the epidermis is found only in thick skin?

1. Stratum corneum
2. Stratum lucidum
3. Stratum spinosum
4. Stratum granulosum

Which layer of the epidermis is responsible for the production of keratin?

1. Stratum basale
2. Stratum corneum
3. Stratum lucidum
4. Stratum granulosum

Which layer of the epidermis is composed of dead cells filled with keratin?

1. Stratum corneum
2. Stratum lucidum
3. Stratum spinosum
4. Stratum granulosum

Which layer of the epidermis contains melanocytes?

1. Stratum corneum
2. Stratum basale
3. Stratum spinosum
4. Stratum granulosum