The Transport of Water and Nutrients - Presentation

In an engaging biology presentation, students are introduced to the vital process of how water and nutrients are transported around the body, with a particular focus on osmosis and the function of the kidneys. The session begins with questions designed to spark curiosity, such as whether students can describe osmosis in simple terms and understand that nutrients move to all body parts via this process. They are also prompted to think about the role of the kidneys in water removal from the body. The aim is to provide learners with a clear understanding of these essential biological mechanisms.

The lesson features an anecdote about Bethany and Maisie attending a lecture by the esteemed Professor Winston Roberts, who uses an ox kidney to explain the organ's function. He describes kidneys as filters, removing excess water through urination and maintaining the body's hydration. The professor highlights the importance of drinking adequate water daily and shares fascinating facts about the kidneys' work, including their ability to filter a large volume of blood each day. Students are encouraged to answer questions about kidney function, the scientific term for urination, daily water intake, the microscopic structures within the kidneys, and their location in the body. The presentation also includes an osmosis experiment with potatoes to illustrate how water moves in response to salt concentration, furthering the students' understanding of osmosis. They are tasked with building a kidney model to explore the filtration and fluid removal process, reinforcing the lesson's objectives and providing a practical understanding of the urinary system.