Skeletal System: Structure and Functions

    OCR
    GCSE

    Candidates must demonstrate detailed knowledge of the skeletal framework, identifying major bones and articulating specific functions: support, protection, movement, structural shape, blood cell production, and mineral storage. Responses must analyse how the skeletal system facilitates biomechanical efficiency through joint articulation and muscle attachment, specifically applying these concepts to sporting performance. Evaluation of the impact of weight-bearing exercise on bone density and the classification of bones by shape is essential for higher-level credit.

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    Objectives
    3
    Exam Tips
    3
    Pitfalls
    3
    Key Terms
    4
    Mark Points

    What You Need to Demonstrate

    Key skills and knowledge for this topic

    • Award 1 mark for correct identification of bones using scientific terminology (e.g., 'sternum', not 'breastbone').
    • Credit explanations of functions that link structure to physiological outcome (e.g., 'red blood cell production in bone marrow for oxygen transport').
    • For AO2, candidates must apply skeletal functions to specific sporting examples (e.g., 'cranium protects the brain during a header in football').
    • In extended responses, award marks for analysing how the skeletal system allows for specific ranges of movement at synovial joints.

    Example Examiner Feedback

    Real feedback patterns examiners use when marking

    • "Replace colloquial terms with precise anatomical vocabulary (e.g., use 'vertebrae')."
    • "Expand on the function of 'support' by explaining how it maintains posture for the specific sport."
    • "Your application to the sport is generic; specify how the 'femur' acts as a lever in this kick."
    • "Differentiate clearly between 'protection' and 'structural shape' in your analysis."

    Marking Points

    Key points examiners look for in your answers

    • Award 1 mark for correct identification of bones using scientific terminology (e.g., 'sternum', not 'breastbone').
    • Credit explanations of functions that link structure to physiological outcome (e.g., 'red blood cell production in bone marrow for oxygen transport').
    • For AO2, candidates must apply skeletal functions to specific sporting examples (e.g., 'cranium protects the brain during a header in football').
    • In extended responses, award marks for analysing how the skeletal system allows for specific ranges of movement at synovial joints.

    Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for maximising your marks

    • 💡Memorise the location of all major bones to ensure accuracy in labelling diagrams.
    • 💡When asked for functions, provide the specific mechanism (e.g., 'leverage') rather than just the outcome.
    • 💡Ensure movement analysis links the bone, the joint type, and the specific sporting action.

    Common Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers

    • Using lay terms like 'collar bone' or 'shoulder blade' instead of 'clavicle' or 'scapula'.
    • Stating 'movement' as a function without explaining the role of muscle attachment and leverage.
    • Confusing the function of 'mineral storage' (calcium/phosphorus) with 'energy storage'.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    Functions of the Skeleton (Protection, Support, Movement, Mineral Storage, Blood Cell Production)
    Classification of Bones (Long, Short, Flat, Irregular, Sesamoid)
    Axial and Appendicular Skeleton Structure

    Likely Command Words

    How questions on this topic are typically asked

    Identify
    Describe
    Explain
    Analyse
    Evaluate

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