The Human Digestive System
Before nutrients are absorbed, they must be broken down to their simplest components. Teeth
and muscular contractions in the stomach break food down into smaller particles, a process
called mechanical digestion. In the meantime, powerful chemicals break down food in a
process called chemical digestion.
Label: Based on what you have learned, identify the organs of the human digestive system.
Referring to the Gizmo, describe the functions of:
The Mouth
The Esophagus
The Stomach
The Small Intestine
The Large Intestine
The Anus
What is peristalsis?
Describe the function of the accessory organs:
The Liver
The Pancreas
What type of tissue is the digestive tract made up of?
Goblet cells –
What purpose does mucus serve?
a)
b)
Application Questions – Answer on a separate sheet of paper
1. Why is it important that the mouth and stomach are near the start of the digestive
system?
2. In humans, the small intestine can be over 8 meters (26 feet) long. Why do you think
this organ is so long?