The human heart and double circulatory system
I can describe the function and structure of the human heart, and the importance of having a double circulatory system.
The human heart and double circulatory system
I can describe the function and structure of the human heart, and the importance of having a double circulatory system.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Substances are transported around the body in the blood.
- Blood is pumped through blood vessels by an organ called the heart.
- The heart is made of cardiac muscle, which continually contracts and relaxes to pump blood.
- The heart has four chambers with valves, which keep oxygenated and deoxygenated blood separate.
- We have a double circulatory system; blood is pumped to the lungs for gas exchange then around the rest of the body.
Common misconception
Confusion between the names and functions of the different parts of the heart and the direction that blood moves through the heart.
The parts of the heart and their structure and function are dealt with separately and clearly, and followed up with quick checks plus longer and more detailed tasks.
Keywords
Circulatory system - The system which transports nutrients and waste around the body.
Heart - An organ which pumps blood around the body.
Cardiac muscle - Specialised tissue found in the heart which rhythmically contracts and relaxes together.
Chamber - A section of the heart, known as an atrium or ventricle.
Valve - Flaps in the heart which prevent backflow of blood.
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).
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