Pulses - Research worksheet

This research worksheet encourages students to work with a partner to explore the intricacies of human physiology, specifically focusing on the cardiovascular system. The first task is to investigate whether pulse rate and heartbeat are identical concepts. Students are expected to delve into the mechanics of the heart's function, distinguishing between the physical sensation of a pulse and the heart's contractions. They must explain their findings, likely uncovering that while the two are closely related, they are not the same thing; the heartbeat is the actual contraction of the heart, while the pulse rate is the palpable beat that can be felt over the arteries as a result of these contractions.

The second question prompts students to research the causation of a pulse. In answering this, they should explain how the heart's rhythmic contractions create pressure waves that propagate through the circulatory system, which can be felt as a pulse in various points of the body where arteries are close to the skin. Additionally, the worksheet tasks students with considering the best way to present their findings, suggesting the importance of clear communication in scientific research. The worksheet further encourages exploration of the heart's functionality and its crucial role in maintaining life, as well as the relationship between heartbeat and physical exercise. This could lead to discussions on how exercise affects heart rate and, consequently, the pulse rate, illustrating the dynamic nature of the human body's response to physical activity.