A system of defences in the body, including white blood cells, which protects against pathogens.

Components of the blood which help blood to clot and seal wounds.

A type of cell in the blood that is part of the immune system and responds to pathogens.

When a white blood cell engulfs, digests and destroys a pathogen.

Non-specific defences of the human body against pathogens

Combined science

Pupils will learn about the use of antibiotics against pathogens, and the development of new drugs and novel treatments for disease.

Pupils learned about non-communicable diseases in humans, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer; and about communicable diseases in humans and plant caused by pathogens including bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists.

This unit explores the body's defences and immune response against pathogens, disease prevention, and vaccines. It covers plant defence responses, and disease detection, and evaluates scientific applications, considering personal, social, economic, and environmental implications.

Defences against pathogens, the human immune system and vaccination

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

The human body has defences against pathogens. These include physical defences, {{}} defences and microbial defences.

eyes producing tears that contain enzymes to break down pathogens

Match each type of defence to the correct example.

The function of the {{}} system is to protect us against pathogens.

Two types of white blood cells are lymphocytes and {{}}.

Phagocytes are attracted to pathogens by chemical signals.

The cytoplasm of the phagocyte changes shape and engulfs the pathogen.

Put the steps in the correct order to explain how phagocytosis takes place.

The phagocytes will engulf all cells they encounter.

The phagocytes only engulf one type of pathogen.

The phagocytes will engulf white blood cells.

Why is phagocytosis described as a non-specific defence?

True or false? All microorganisms are harmful to humans.

Which type of acid does the stomach contain?

Diseases caused by pathogens are called __________ diseases.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Non-specific defences of the human body against pathogens

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.