Mammalian systems · SHS1 Biology

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 1.4.1.LI.1 - Relate the external and internal features of mammals to their functions.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify and name at least eight external features of a mammal (e.g., fur, ears, eyes, nostrils, whiskers, limbs, tail, mammary papillae) from a live or preserved specimen.
Relate each external feature to its specific function in the survival of the mammal.
Identify and name at least five internal organs of a mammal (e.g., heart, lungs, liver, stomach, small intestine, kidneys) from a dissected specimen or diagram.
Relate each internal organ to its function in the life processes of the mammal.
Draw and annotate a labelled diagram of a dissected mammal showing both external and internal features with their functions.

Sign in with your phone number to read the full note and download the GES plan - free.

Sign in with phone number

Curriculum details

Strand: Systems of Life (Strand 4)
Sub-strand: Mammalian systems (4.1)
Content standard: 1.4.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the morphology of mammals. 1.4.1.LO.1 Describe the morphology of mammals and relate the structures to their functions.
Indicator: 1.4.1.LI.1 - Relate the external and internal features of mammals to their functions.
Suggested placement: Semester 2, Week 13 (Week 33 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 58

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Experiential Learning: learners in mixed-ability, all-inclusive groups, critically observe, discuss and write down their findings on the external features of a sedated mammal (e.g., Albino rat, rabbit, Guinea pig etc.) presented to them at the lab: learner experiences lessons in real life scenarios.
Experiential Learning:
- Learners watch a video on how dissection is done or observe their teacher demonstrate the dissection of a small mammal and note the steps involved in the procedure.
- Learners in mixed ability groups take turns to dissect the mammals and observe the internal organs in groups, discuss their observations and write down key ideas. By carrying out these hands on activities, learners overcome their fears and anxieties in dissection and appreciate real-life situations. Working together builds self-confidence and team spirit among learners.
Group Learning: in groups discuss and write down the functions of the internal and external features of the small mammals dissected and draw an annotated diagram of the final dissected mammal."
Teaching and Learning Materials:
- * Three different species of the different groups of mammals (e.g., rabbit, albino rat, guinea pig, cat, etc.) * Dissecting scissors * Forceps or tweezers
- * Scalpels * Hand gloves
- Dissecting board
Assessment (1.4.1.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 1 Recall; Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 3 Strategic reasoning; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.