Introduction to the SensesGather and synthesize information that sensory receptors respond to stimuli by sending messages to the brain for immediate behavior or storage as memories.

NGSS MS-LS1-8 and MS-LS1-3

Structure fits function in the human body.

Anatomy: the study of the structure of an organism and its parts.

Physiology: the study of what structures do and how they do it.

Levels of Body Structure

Cell: basic unit of living matter

Tissue: a cooperating unit of many cells that perform a specific function.

Organ: consists of several tissues that together perform a specific function.

Organ system: consists of multiple organs that together perform a vital body function.

The body regulates its internal environment.

Homeostasis: the internal stability or “steady state” maintained by your body.

Sensory receptors link the environment to the nervous system.

Sensation: When sensory information reaches your brain and you are aware of these sensory stimuli.

Perception: The brain integrates new information and forms meaningful interpretations of sensory data.

Sensation and Perception

Perceptions

Are meaningful interpretations of sensory data

Sensory receptors detect stimuli, such as light, sounds, and skin temperature, and send the information to the Central Nervous System (CNS).

These receptors are found in high concentrations in your sense organs.

Sense organs:

Nose = olfactory sense

Eyes = vision

Ears = auditory sense

Mouth = gustatory system is the sensory system for the sense of taste.

Skin = integumentary system (the largest organ)

The nervous system links sensation to response.

Structure and Functions of the Nervous System 

The nervous system is made up of many types of neurons, they all have specialized structures that enable them to convey electrical signals.

The organs of the nervous system form two subsystems.

Central Nervous System (CNS):

made up of the brain and the spinal cord and is the main information processing center of the body

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS):

made up of all the nervous tissue outside the CNS.

The PNS delivers information to the CNS and carries messages from the CNS to other organs.

PNS

Sensory Input: The PNS receives information about an environmental change, or stimulus and sensory neurons carry the information about the stimuli to the CNS.

Integration: The CNS interprets the information using interneurons and plans your bodies response.

Motor Output: The CNS orders a response. These signals are carried away from the CNS by motor neurons.