1. What do you notice is the main difference between the structure of the connective tissues and the
structure of the epithelium? Make sure to note the organization of cells in these two tissue types.
The epithelial tissue is in a closely-packed pattern. The connective tissue is more spread out. The
epithelial tissue did not have any blood vessels connected to it, whereas the connective tissue did.
2. Explain how the structure of epithelium and the structure of connective tissue, specifically bone,
relate to the function of the tissue.
One main function of epithelial tissue is protection. It forms protective layers or linings in the body. So it
makes sense that epithelial tissue cells would be closely packed together. Bone tissue cells are
structured in a more spread-out matrix with blood vessels connected to the tissue. This makes sense
when considering that the bones need to support while being lightweight. This structure also supports
the bone cell function of making new blood cells (enabled by the fact that the tissue has blood vessels
that can bring needed supplies to it).
3. How does the distribution of tissues contribute to our appearance and to our identity?
One major way that we get our appearance is by the shape of our skeleton (determined by the
distribution of our bone connective tissue). Our muscle tissue is also unique, which can give us a more or
less full figure. Fat (or adipose) tissue, as we have seen on our Maniken, can also determine things like
the shape of the cheeks and the eyes.
4. Describe the role of fat in our cheeks and behind our eyes.
The buccal fat pads have been hypothesized to help infants chew and suckle.
5. Think about the action of the muscles you have built on your Maniken®. Describe specific motions
that you would not be able to complete if you damaged your temporalis, your orbicularis oculi or your
orbicularis oris. How would this affect your ability to communicate?
If the temporalis was damaged, it would be difficult to open and close your mouth. This would obviously
make it more difficult to form words. And it would affect your ability to chew food.
6. Reflect on your own identity. What do you think helps make you, you?
The personality of an individual in my opinion helps make them.