The Skeletal System

Key Notes :

What is the Skeletal System?

  • The skeletal system is made up of all the bones in our body.
  • It provides structure, support, and protection to our body.

Functions of the Skeletal System

  • Support: Bones give our body its shape and support.
  • Protection: Bones protect our vital organs. For example, the skull protects the brain, and the ribcage protects the heart and lungs.
  • Movement: Bones, along with muscles, help us move our body.
  • Blood Production: Bones produce red and white blood cells inside the bone marrow.

Number of Bones

  • Humans have 206 bones in their body.
  • Babies are born with about 270 bones, but some bones fuse together as they grow.

Major Bones in the Body

  • Skull: Protects the brain.
  • Ribcage: Protects the heart and lungs.
  • Spine (Vertebral Column): Supports the back and allows us to bend.
  • Arm and Leg Bones: Help in movement. Examples include the femur (thigh bone), humerus (upper arm bone), and tibia (shin bone).

Joints

  • Joints are where two or more bones meet.
  • They allow us to bend and move. Examples:
    • Hinge Joints: Like in elbows and knees, which allow back-and-forth movement.
    • Ball-and-Socket Joints: Like in shoulders and hips, which allow rotation and wide range of movement.

Taking Care of Our Bones

  • Eat foods rich in calcium (like milk, yogurt, and cheese) to keep bones strong.
  • Get enough vitamin D from sunlight.
  • Exercise regularly to keep bones healthy.
  • Wear protective gear, like helmets and knee pads, to prevent injuries.

Fun Fact

  • The femur is the longest and strongest bone in the body.
  • The stapes (located in the ear) is the smallest bone in the human body.

Let’s practice!