TESC –Winter 2005

Digestive System Anatomy & Physiology

activity objectives:

v Teach and reinforce the structural components of the human digestive system

v Identify and explain the various digestive enzymes

v Set the foundation for understanding metabolism and nutritional concepts

Each student will be randomly assigned an anatomical section of the digestive system and its physiological role in nutrient digestion.

Instructions for first part of ACTIVITY:

o Read about each part/section of your assigned digestive anatomy to assist in your understanding of how this section of the body contributes to the digestive process. Your text gives some information, but you might want to access other sources, either online or in the library.

o Research and identify each enzyme/secretion needed for chemical / bacterial and /or mechanical digestion that takes place in /because of your assigned section of the digestive system. Please remember that you will be teaching the specifics of how these enzymes/secretions work to break down larger molecules to release nutrients to your classmates. You should also understand, so you can discuss, any absorption that occurs in the area you are researching.

o You will have time to meet and discuss your preliminary research on Tuesday February 8th, with others researching the same digestive system portion. BE PREPARED to discuss/ask questions. There is no excuse for not being prepared.

Instructions for second section of activity [Thursday February 10^th ]:

o You will mold out of playdoh [provided by instructor] a model of your section of the digestive system. Using the model and your notes, you will present your findings, please plan on 10 min. for your presentation. Feel free to bring any photographs or other aids to assist in your teaching.

o Everyone will be randomly assigned to a small group, in which each anatomical section of the digestive system will be represented [in order from mouth to anus]. You will share your knowledge with classmates; take care to make sure everyone has a solid understanding of both the anatomy and how the enzymes/secretions work.

o As each member of the group presents their piece of the system, they will add onto the structure being made, with the end product a full digestive system.

o Submit a typed outline of the digestive functions of the section you have been assigned. Be sure to include any distinct anatomical structures that relate to these functions. Include a bibliography of the sources you accessed to research this assignment.