To further your understanding of this hierarchy, you will be creating a visual representation of it using the ladder idea discussed in the unit. You may choose to create this graphic representation digitally, using a word processing or drawing-type program, or you may choose to create this visual representation by hand on a poster board or large sheet of paper. Regardless of what medium you choose to express your visual hierarchy, you will need to extend your understanding of what each rung on the ladder represents by doing some online research. For each rung on the ladder, you will need to include the following: A brief explanation or definition of what the rung represents Two additional facts that relate to what the rung represents An image that helps to explain what the rung represents Any specific terms that relate to this rung and their definitions Make sure that you also create and submit a list of websites that you used for research along with your visual representation of the hierarchy of the human body. If you choose to complete this assignment using a hand-drawn poster, take plenty of clear and concise photographs of your creation to submit for grading.

Answer 1

Creating a visual representation of the hierarchy of the human body can be a rewarding educational project. Below is a structured approach to help you organize each rung of your "ladder," along with explanations and additional information for each level. The hierarchy from the simplest to the most complex is as follows: cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, and the organism as a whole.

Hierarchy of the Human Body: Ladder Structure

1. Cells

   • Definition: The basic structural and functional unit of all living organisms.
   • Facts:
     1. There are approximately 200 different types of cells in the human body, such as muscle cells, nerve cells, and red blood cells.
     2. Cells perform vital functions including energy production, waste removal, and replication.
   • Image: A diagram of a cell showing its components (nucleus, mitochondria, etc.).
   • Specific Terms:
     • Mitochondria: Known as the powerhouse of the cell, it produces energy.
     • Nucleus: The control center of the cell that contains genetic material.

2. Tissues

   • Definition: Groups of cells that are similar in structure and function.
   • Facts:
     1. There are four basic types of tissues: epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue.
     2. Tissues work together to perform specific functions, like forming organs.
   • Image: A chart displaying the four types of tissues.
   • Specific Terms:
     • Epithelial Tissue: Covers body surfaces and lines cavities.
     • Connective Tissue: Supports and binds other tissues.

3. Organs

   • Definition: Structures made up of two or more tissue types that work together to perform specific functions.
   • Facts:
     1. Examples include the heart, liver, and lungs, each having unique roles in the body.
     2. Organs can be part of more than one system, such as the pancreas, which functions in both the digestive and endocrine systems.
   • Image: An illustration of common human organs.
   • Specific Terms:
     • Organ System: A group of organs that work together to carry out complex functions (e.g., the digestive system).
     • Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life.

4. Organ Systems

   • Definition: Groups of organs that work together to carry out complex overall functions.
   • Facts:
     1. There are 11 major organ systems in the human body, including the circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems.
     2. Each system collaborates with others to maintain homeostasis and overall health.
   • Image: A diagram showing the major organ systems of the human body.
   • Specific Terms:
     • Homeostasis: The process of maintaining a stable internal environment.
     • Circulatory System: Responsible for the flow of blood and transport of nutrients, oxygen, and hormones.

5. Organism

   • Definition: A living being that has a cellular structure and can function independently.
   • Facts:
     1. The human body is a complex organism comprised of trillions of cells working in harmony.
     2. Organisms exhibit characteristics such as growth, reproduction, and response to stimuli.
   • Image: A complete human silhouette or a full-body diagram.
   • Specific Terms:
     • Biosphere: The global sum of all ecosystems, where organisms interact with one another and their environment.
     • Homeostasis: The state of steady internal conditions maintained by living things.

Recommended Research Sources

1. National Institutes of Health (NIH) - www.nih.gov
2. WebMD - www.webmd.com
3. Britannica - www.britannica.com
4. Human Anatomy Online - www.innerbody.com
5. TeachMeAnatomy - www.teachmeanatomy.info

Visual Representation

• Create a ladder diagram with each rung labeled for cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, and the organism.
• Under each rung, include the relevant information as outlined above.
• Use a clear and visually appealing style with images that relate to each rung.

Once you have completed your ladder and gathered your images, make sure to take clear photographs if you create it manually and compile a document with all your cited sources for submission. Good luck with your project!