Science The Human Body Conceptual 12–14 yrs

How the Body Stays in Balance

人体如何保持平衡

Description

Explain homeostasis as the process of maintaining a stable internal environment; describe the main feedback loop systems (negative feedback) using blood glucose regulation (insulin/glucagon) and body temperature as concrete examples; and connect the endocrine system (hormone-secreting glands) to the nervous system as two complementary communication systems with different speeds and durations

Mastery Evidence

✓ Defines homeostasis and explains why maintaining a stable internal environment is essential for survival
✓ Describes the blood glucose negative feedback loop: glucose rises → pancreas releases insulin → cells take up glucose → glucose falls → insulin release stops
✓ Compares the nervous system (fast, electrical, short-duration signals) with the endocrine system (slower, chemical, longer-duration signals) and gives an example where each is more appropriate

Assessment Prompt

If your child ate a large meal of sugary food and was asked what their body does to keep blood sugar from getting dangerously high, could they explain the role of insulin and describe how the feedback system brings levels back to normal?