GCSE PE Theory The Skeleton & Bones

Functions of the skeleton Shape and Support. The skeleton helps maintain our shape and posture enabling us to stand up-right. It acts as a support structure for the human body, without it we would be unable to play any sports Movement. The bones of the skeleton are jointed so that the body can move around. These movements are adapted and used in sport. Muscles act to provide the power to move the joints.

Protection Blood Production The skeleton serves to protect the delicate organs of the body, e.g. the skull protects the brain, the ribs protect the heart and lungs. Blood Production Blood cells are produced by bone marrow which is found in the cavities of large bones such as the femur.

Bones All the bones of the body form the skeletal system Bone is hard, rigid non-elastic tissue

Types of Bone. Long e.g. The bones of the upper and lower arms and legs, collar bone, ribs. Your height, shoe size and glove size depend on these bones

Short e.g carpals (wrist), tarsals (feet) Small and squat Light and very strong

Flat e.g pelvis, scapula and cranium Large surface area needed for all the muscles to attach to them.

Irregular e.g the vertebrae They are specially shaped for the job they have to do

What Are They All Called? How many bones in the skeleton can you name on the worksheet without any help?