Estimating lung volume
I can describe how to use simple apparatus to estimate lung volume.
Estimating lung volume
I can describe how to use simple apparatus to estimate lung volume.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The vital capacity of the lungs is the maximum volume of air that can be exhaled after inhaling fully.
- How to measure vital capacity using simple apparatus.
- The closer a measurement is to the true value, the more accurate it is said to be.
- An estimate is an approximate (rough) value of a quantity (without taking accurate measurements).
- An estimate of lung volume can be calculated from a measurement of vital capacity.
Keywords
Volume - The amount of three-dimensional space occupied by a substance; usually measured in cm³.
Vital capacity - The maximum volume of air that can be breathed out after breathing in fully.
Accurate - The closer a measurement is to the true value, the more accurate it is said to be.
Meniscus - The surface of a liquid, which may appear curved.
Estimate - An approximate (rough) value of a quantity (obtained without taking accurate measurements).
Common misconception
Using the term 'accurate' without understanding what it means in relation to scientific measurements. Thinking that an estimate is just a guess.
The lesson explores the concepts of 'accurate' and 'estimate' using simple apparatus to estimate the vital capacity of the lungs.
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Estimating lung volume, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Estimating lung volume, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Breathing and respiration unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions


Exit quiz
6 Questions



