Unit 5 Reflection

In this unit we studied the digestive, endocrine and lymphatic systems as well as fuel metabolism and diabetes. We started with the digestive system and learned abut how all the various organs function to maximize absorption to get optimal energy from the food we ingest. We did a lab that highlighted the length of our digestive systems and showed us that they stretched nearly all the way across the classroom. We then had a lecture on fuel metabolism which described the phases that occur before and after eating: the fed, the fasting, and the starvation phases. This was particularly interesting for me because it really applies to the everyday feelings we experience everyday, like hunger, and explains the science behind why we feel that way. We had an entire lecture on diabetes to emphasize how detrimental it can be to a persons health and how important it is to take steps in preventing it. The endocrine and lymphatic systems relate to hormones and how they are formed and what it is that they do. The section on lymph stood out to me because it shows that there is much more than simply blood following in the body. Even though I was absent a few times I'm happy I kept up with my work and notes and am happy I prepared well for the temp checks because I was proud of my scores which makes me feel confident for the upcoming test. All in all, it was a successful unit.

Digestion Lab Questions

In this lab, we measured and represented our digestive systems with ribbon and string, to understand just how long each part is. Once the activity was over we saw how our mock digestive tracts stretched all the way across the classroom, giving us a better sense of its size. After I compared the my height in meters, 1.75, and the length of my digestive system in meters, 9.4, I realized my digestive system was nearly five and a half time longer then the length of my 5'9 body. I think that the system is able to fit in the body by folding itself over and over again. My guess for how long it takes for food to move throughout the entire system is completely random cause I have nothing to reference my answer off of, so I'd say, one day. After I did some research to find the real answer I found it takes from around 24 to 72 hours. Activity levels and types of food influence the digestion time. Digestion is the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food throughout the ailmentary canal while absorption is the process of intaking nutrients and water to help support the body. The small and large intestine is used during absorption and the stomach, mouth and liver are involved in digestion. I question what factors alter digestion in what way? I also wonder what parts of foods are digested and what are absorbed? I want to learn more about the liver and what types of functions it has.
Data Table

Goals

New Semester Goals

My two goals for this semester are quite simple. My first one, which applies to all classes but anatomy in particular, is to construct study guides early in the unit. That way that when it comes time for the test I’m more prepared and don’t have to cram. By doing that I’ll be able to hopefully do better on exams and my grade will improve. My other goal is to balance school and sports in a way that allows me to excel in both fields. With spring training and the SAT coming up there will be lots of things to stay on top of. But I want to be sure that I get lots of sleep and manage both my academics and athletics so I don’t become stressed or overwhelmed.