Respiratory System WebQuest

 By Winston Lee

              Introduction      /      Task      /      Resources      /      Process      /      Conclusion      /      Evaluation

 Introduction

 The Respiratory System consists of a combination of organs, which allow the body to breathe.  It combines with the cardiovascular system, also known as the circulatory system to bring oxygen to the cells of the body.  It also works with together with the cardiovascular system to assist the human body in getting rid of waste products in the form of carbon dioxide.  Although some may wonder how this whole process works, we never really look at it completely. We don’t realize just how complex it is for a human to survive.  Oxygen is obtained from the atmosphere and brought to the cells of the body through an intricate process.  We breathe constantly taking air in and out of our body, but are not always sure where the air actually goes and the how the body uses it.  The air we breathe in travels through many different tubes before it reaches the cells of the human body.  This exercise will allow you to explore the anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system.

Task

The anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system are extremely important in your education as an Emergency Medical Technician.  It will give you a broad understanding of how the body obtains oxygen, removes waste products, and the importance of its vital function in keeping patients alive.  It will also prepare you for future certification examinations.  At the end of this assignment, you should like be able to describe and explain the structure and functions of the respiratory system as well as label a diagram of the respiratory system.  I will divide into groups of two and have you explore the respiratory system using interactive internet websites to gain your information and knowledge.  This webquest is divided into two distinct parts for you to explore.  Each task will require you to complete an assignment using the internet for your information.

The two tasks you will work on are as follows:

1. Anatomy of the Respiratory System
2. Physiology of the Respiratory System

Resources

1.      http://www.sirinet.net/~jgjohnso/respiratory.html

            2.      http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=22576

            3.      http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=40743

            4.      http://www.biology.eku.edu/RITCHISO/301notes6.htm

            5.      http://www.cdli.ca/~dpower/resp/exchange.htm#Breathing

            6.      http://www.le.ac.uk/pathology/teach/va/anatomy/case2/frmst2.html

            7.      http://www.howstuffworks.com/lung.htm

            8.      http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/pub/category/7165.html

Process

There are two class periods set aside for you to complete this project.  All work should be completed during this time frame, but you are allowed to use extra time outside of class to assist you in understanding the information.

1. Determine the assigned task topic for the day.
2. You will need a computer with internet access and have the webquest on disk for your computer or obtain the proper site from you instructor.
3. Read and review the internet resources provided.
4. On a separate piece of paper, answer the questions as for the assigned task.
5. Complete the diagram if indicated in the process.
6. When you have answered all of the questions, please type your final copy.
7. If you have any problems with the webquest, please contact your teacher for further guidance.
8. Good Luck and enjoy!!

 Task One

Using the internet resources listed above, write down information so you can answer the following questions:

1. Describe the function of the nasal and oral pharynx for breathing.
2. Describe the structure and function of the epiglottis.
3. Describe the structure and location of the trachea. Explain its function in relation to respiration.
4. Describe the structure and function of the cricoid cartilage.
5. Explain the function of the larynx.
6. List and describe the two major branches of the airway to the lungs.
7. Explain the function of the lungs and the number of lobes.
8. Discuss the function of the alveoli.  Describe its structure and location.
9. Describe the structure and location of the diaphragm.  Explain its importance in relation to respiration.
10. Complete the diagram of the respiratory system using the following website: http://www.gen.umn.edu/faculty_staff/jensen/1135/webanatomy/wa_respiratory/wa_resps_1.html Print out the results when you are done.
11. Hand in a copy of your assignments.

 Task Two

 Using the internet resources listed above, write down information so you can answer the following questions:

1. Discuss the process of inhalation and describe how it occurs.
2. Discuss the process of exhalation and describe how it occurs.
3. Explain how gas exchange takes place in the lungs at the alveolar level.
4. Explain how gas exchange takes place at the cellular level.
5. List the steps in the process of how oxygen passes from the air into the blood.
6. What is the percentage of oxygen in the air we breathe from the atmosphere?
7. Explain the structural differences in the respiratory anatomy of the adult from a child or infant.
8. Hand in a copy of your assignment.

Conclusion

You have successfully completed the exercise on the respiratory system.  Hopefully now you have a better understanding of how the lungs work, how we breathe, and how important it is to protect our lungs with proper personal care and exercise.  I hope you had a lot of fun and enjoyed this exercise.

Evaluation

Use the following websites as final review of the respiratory system to aid in your studies.

After opening up the following website, please print out and answer the questions.  You may use the website for assistance if necessary.

http://web.ukonline.co.uk/webwise/spinneret/humans/resyst.htm -online quiz

Use the following website as a final review to help you with the lesson.

http://www.naturalhealthschool.com/heart_lungs.html - online lesson

The following website will be helpful as a quick quiz:

http://www.vilenski.org/science/humanbody/hb_html/selftest/resp/index.html

Rubric

Please click here to see how you will be graded

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