Digestive SystemUnderstanding Your Food

TESC fall 2003

activity objectives:

vTeach and reinforce the structural components of the human digestive system

vIdentify and explain the various digestive enzymes

vSet the foundation for nutritional concepts 

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

Instructions for first part of ACTIVITY: 

oRead 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.Chapter 3 of text gives some information, but you might want to access other sources, either online or in the library.

oResearch 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. 

oSubmit a typed outline [on Wednesday October 1st] 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.

Instructions for second section of activity [Wednesday October 1st]:

oYou 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 15 min. for your presentation. Feel free to bring any photographs or other aids to assist in your teaching.

oEveryone 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.

oAs 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.