Skin structure and function re-cap

• 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

Pathogen

Acid mantle

Corpuscle - cor-pu-ss-ul

Androgens

Testosterone

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?

What are the 5 senses we have?

Experiment 1

Perform a waxing tactile test on the person sitting next to you, what are the 2 senses you are detecting?

Using the test tubes, rest these against your partners skin, what are the 2 senses that are being felt? 

For the last sense, perform a petrissage movement on the palm of the hand, what is this sensation?

S is for sensation

The nerve endings within the skin allow you to identify sensations such as 

Pain, touch, heat, cold and pressure.

Experiment 2

Heat regulation

Put the apparatus available onto your skin, hold for a few seconds then lift it off.

What changes have occurred in your skin?

Can you describe how these changes have occurred?

If you finish early, click on the hyperlink titled' HEAT REGULATION' and explain how the skin regulates body temperature.

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.  

hair shaft

What can recall about the structure of the skin?

Explain the difference between the Epidermis skin and the Dermis

List as many key facts from today's session