Grade 5 Science

Optional Unit: Human Circulation and Breathing

Unit overview:

The functioning of two related systems, the breathing and circulation systems, is described. How the systems work together to supply cells with blood, and to remove gaseous wastes, is considered.

Related units:

This unit is not related to any other units in grade 5. The Optional Unit on Nutrition and Digestion in grade 4, and the Units on Growth and Development, and Human Body Control Systems in grade 6 are related.

Suggested themes:

air, breathing, circulation, living things

Factors of scientific literacy which should be emphasized:

• A2 historic
• B2 interaction
• B4 organism
• B14 cycle
• B15 model
• B16 system
• C9 inferring
• D1 science and technology
• E4 using audio-visual aids
• F1 longing to know and understand
• F2 questioning
• G1 interest
• G3 continuous learner

Common Essential Learnings foundational objectives which should be emphasized:

• To use a wide range of possibilities for developing students' knowledge of how oxygen is transported to the cells. (COM)
• To develop the students' appreciation of the value and limitations of technology within society. (TL)

Science foundational and learning objectives:

1. Describe the functioning of the circulatory system.
   1. Identify the four chambers of the heart and the role of each chamber.
   2. Describe the functions of the arteries, the capillaries, and the veins.
   3. Observe and describe blood.
   4. Explain the function of blood plasma and blood solids.
   5. Discuss the difference in blood pressure in the arteries and the veins.
   6. Describe some conditions which impair the efficiency of the circulatory system.
   7. Describe some surgical process for repairing arteries.
   8. Investigate the design of artificial hearts.
2. Describe the functioning of the respiratory system.
   
   
   1. Identify the components of the respiratory system.
   2. Describe the function of the diaphragm.
   3. Describe the components of the lungs and windpipes.
   4. Describe how the air is cleaned before it gets to the lungs.
   5. Describe the process of inhalation and exhalation.
   6. Describe some conditions which impair the efficiency of the respiratory system.
   7. Investigate the technology of lung transplants.
3. Consider the interaction between the two systems.
   1. Discuss the diffusion of gases.
   2. Describe the diffusion of gases from the lungs to the capillaries and from the capillaries to the lungs.