Gas exchange systems
This resource lists provides ideas for teaching about gas exchange, with good opportunity to link up with the PE department. Students should learn about:
- the structure and functions of the gas exchange system in humans, including adaptations to function
- the mechanism of breathing to move air in and out of the lungs, using a pressure model to explain the movement of gases, including simple measurements of lung volume
- the impact of exercise, asthma and smoking on the human gas exchange system
- the role of leaf stomata in gas exchange in plants.
Visit the secondary science webpage to access all lists: https://www.stem.org.uk/secondary-science
Whilst this list provides a source of information and ideas for experimental work, it is important to note that recommendations can date very quickly. Do NOT follow suggestions which conflict with current advice from CLEAPSS, SSERC or recent safety guides. eLibrary users are responsible for ensuring that any activity, including practical work, which they carry out is consistent with current regulations related to Health and Safety and that they carry an appropriate risk assessment. Further information is provided in our Health and Safety guidance.
On Your Marks...Get Set...Breathe (Ages 11-14)
This resource consists of four experiments about breathing and lung function. Students use lung volume bags, peak flow meters and pulse oximeters to explore lung function and to find out how different activities affect their breathing. The experiments can be carried out in the science classroom but there is an opportunity for collaboration with the PE department.
Breathing Made Easy
This resource may need a little updating, but there' are some useful questions and activities. On page 6 is a quick literacy activity to help students consider the difference between respiration and breathing. Adaptations and function are also considered.
The use of peak flow meters in the classroom is also described. Peak flow is a measure of the maximum air flow achieved during a forced expiration, and is measured in litres/second or litres/minute.
Demonstrating Biology: Eight Demonstrations
There is quite an amusing, and messy, way of modelling the journey of food through the digestive system.
Pollen, Lungs, Asthma and Allergies
On page 8 of this resource there is a useful piece of text which students use to label the diagram of the lungs on the next page. This is useful as a starter or plenary, or would make a useful homework task.
Breathing animation (Pulmo Park)
Many resources for teachers to help students explore the pulmonary system including issues related to obstructed breathing and air pollutants.