Humans have migrated globally, adapting to diverse environments.
Human bodies must maintain internal balance, or homeostasis, in response to environmental stimuli.
Key questions: What stimuli must the body respond to? What happens with excessive or insufficient stimuli?
By the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
I. Homeostasis
A. Definition
1. Process of maintaining a stable internal environment
B. Significance for Life
1. Vital for survival
2. Adapting to environmental changes
II. Negative-Feedback System
A. Definition
1. Control mechanism that counteracts a change
B. Example: Body Temperature Regulation
1. Stimulus: Body temperature exceeds 37^{ \text{°C}}
2. Components:
a. Sensor: Nerve cells detect temperature
b. Control Center: Brain regulates temperature
c. Effector: Sweat glands activate to cool the body
III. Positive-Feedback System
A. Definition
1. Control mechanism that enhances a change
B. Example: Labor Contractions
1. Stimulus: Baby's head pushes against the cervix
2. Components:
a. Nerve impulses sent to the brain
b. Brain stimulates pituitary gland for oxytocin release
c. Oxytocin increases uterine contractions, reinforcing the cycle
Describe a negative-feedback system with examples.
Describe a positive-feedback system with examples.
Homeostasis is a balancing act vital for survival.
Environmental challenges can disrupt homeostasis; failure to restore balance may lead to death.
Example: Body Temperature Regulation
Stimulus: Body temperature exceeds 37^{ ext{°C}}.
Components:
Sensor: Nerve cells in skin and brain detect temperature.
Control Center: Temperature regulatory center in brain.
Effector: Sweat glands activate to cool the body.
Process:
Hypothalamus releases Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone (CRH) in response to low glucocorticoids.
CRH triggers adrenal glands to release glucocorticoids into the bloodstream.
Increased glucocorticoids regulate the system back to normal levels, stopping CRH release.
Example: Labor Contractions
Process:
Head of baby pushes against the cervix.
Nerve impulses from cervix are sent to the brain.
Brain stimulates pituitary gland to secrete oxytocin.
Oxytocin increases uterine contractions, pushing the baby further down, reinforcing the cycle.
Illustrative quizzes:
Negative Feedback: Getting 5 questions wrong may prompt a change in study habits.
Positive Feedback: Getting all questions right may encourage continued preparation methods.
Evaluate progress towards the lesson objectives. Identify areas needing further work.
Create a test question from today's lesson and discuss with a partner for clarity.