The Skeletal System

PE to 16: Bones p14-15, The Skeleton p16-19, Joints p20-23

4 functions of the skeleton:-

Support

a framework to support the body

Protection

protects parts of the body that are delicate and could be easily damaged eg ribs and sternum protect the heart and lungs

Movement

muscles are attached to bones when they contract they pull on bones

Blood production

inside larger bones is bone marrow which produces red blood cells

4 types of bone:-

(see diagram above)

Long

eg. femur, ulna

Short

eg carpels, tarsals

Flat

eg pelvis, cranium

Irregular

patella, vertebrae

The Vertebral Column

4 functions of :-

Support

must be strong to support the body parts - transfers the weight of the body down towards the pelvis

Movement

even though the individual vertebrae are held together by slightly moveable joints because there are so many it allows great flexibility

Protection

protects the spinal cord and acts as a shock absorber

Remember :-

C

T

L

S

C

Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar, Sacrum, Coccyx

Now try the Skeletal System test.