S3-5 Sun Care Teacher Notes
Introduction
This section covers aspects of Standard Grade Science; the structure and function of the skin and the potential risk of exposure to UV light and the development of skin cancer, are emphasised. However, this topic also lends itself to the study of certain aspects of Inheritance, such as acquired and inherited variation and simple monohybrid inheritance of skin pigmentation. The intention is to provide online content and activities for pupils, along with additional teacher support in the form of suggestions and ideas for classroom work and downloadable activity sheets.
The pupil content begins with an introduction on the basic facts about the importance of Suncare, before looking at the role of the skin in more detail. This is followed by clear information on the risks of over exposure to the Sun and protection strategies.
Curriculum references
Standard Grade References
Biology Topic 6 Inheritance
Sub-topic a: Variation
Sub-topic b: What is inheritance?
Classroom Applications
The facts
This screen covers the basic principle that protection from the Sun's rays from the earliest age is very important, and that we are exposed to more damaging rays than we initially assume.
The skin
The basic structure and functions of the skin are identified:
- protection against UV light
- a barrier preventing invasion by pathogens
- water loss
- temperature regulation
- sensitivity
emphasising the role of the skin in temperature regulation in homeothermic mammals.
Learning outcomes
- Receptors in the skin are sensitive to touch, pressure, pain and temperature.
- Body temperature is maintained to ensure efficient functioning of enzymes.
Extension work
Annotate a diagram of the histology of human skin.
Structure and Function of Skin PDF
Compare the behaviour of warm-blooded and cold-blooded animals in the extreme contrasting climates of a hot desert and the Arctic/Antarctic.
Compare the physical characteristics of Arctic mammals e.g. Arctic Fox or Polar bears with desert mammals e.g. Gerbil or camel.
Learning outcomes
- Organisms have features (adaptations) which enable them to survive in the conditions in which they live
- Adaptations to survival in arctic and desert conditions include:
- body size and surface area
- thickness of insulating coat
- amount of body fat
- camouflage
Temperature control
This section looks at the four main strategies for maintaining a constant body temperature:
- hair for insulation
- vasoconstriction and vasodilation of superficial blood capillaries
- sweating
- shivering
Learning outcomes
- Body temperature is monitored and controlled by the thermoregulatory centre in the brain.
- To know and understand the strategies to aid heat loss and reduce heat loss.
Extension work
Investigate heat production during exercise.
Skin colour
A brief explanation about the presence and function of melanin and how its concentration varies with race.
Learning outcomes
- Genes are inherited.
- Organisms have features (adaptations) which enable them to survive in the conditions in which they live.
Extension work
Question on the monohybrid inheritance of albinism i.e. NO skin pigment/melanin.
Sun tan
This section provides a graphic showing HOW a suntan is created.
Sunlight
A clear description of the main two sources of UV light in sunlight - UV-A and UV-B and their effects on the Sun. This section also looks at the factors, which affect exposure to UV rays.
Learning outcomes
- Exposure to ionising radiation, including UV light, increases the chance of mutation.
- Mutation in body cells causes rapid uncontrolled replication - cancer.
Extension work
Describe by annotated diagrams the process of mitosis.
Learning outcomes
- Mitosis gives rise to genetically identical cells
Sunscreens
This section looks at the science behind the action of sunscreens - either physical blocks or chemical agents - and the term SPF (Sun protection factor). The correct application of sunscreens and a link to being safe in the Sun is also detailed.
Extension work
Design a poster or leaflet promoting 'SAFE SUN' for children.
Sun and health
This section looks at the science behind the action of sunscreens - either physical blocks or chemical agents - and the term SPF (Sun protection factor). The correct application of sunscreens and a link to being safe in the Sun is also detailed.
Extension work
Tabulate the advantages and disadvantages of exposure/lack of exposure to sunlight.
Design and advertise a Light Box for someone prone to SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).
Skin cancer
Detail about the three main types of skin cancer is provided alongside UK data of incidence.
Summary
A brief synopsis of the information covered.
Revision time
A typical exam question to test the students knowledge.
Useful web links
Sun care and SPF information is available at:
Suncare Tips Leaflet
HEA Guidelines for schools
Cancer Research UK is one of the world's leading cancer research organisations. For information on cancer visit their web site at:
The Met Office monitors the the UV Solar forecast for the UK and Europe, as well as real time UV data. This information is available at:
Downloads
Pupil Section Exe Files
These are versions of the pupil material for this topic that you can download and use offline. Simply save the .exe file to your desktop and double-click it.
Sun Care
PDF files
Structure and Function of Skin PDF
Letter to Parents containing general advice about sun care
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