Class: Primary 5
Term: 2nd Term
Subject: Basic Science And Technology
Curriculum theme: Basic Science
Previous Lesson: The Human Body, Hinge Joint
Topic: Functions of the Bones and Joints
Content/Learning Area: Functions of bones and joints.
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Performance Objectives
by the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain: Explain the functions of bones and joints in the human body.
- Affective Domain: Show appreciation for the importance of bones and joints in body movement.
- Psychomotor Domain: Demonstrate body movements using their joints.
- Social Domain: Work in pairs to identify bones and joints on each other’s bodies.
Reference Materials
The following resources were used in planning this lesson:
- 9 – Years Basic Education curriculum
- Abuja Educational Resource Center Scheme of Work
- NAPPS National Unified Scheme of Work
- Online Details from: MedicalNewsToday – Bones: Types, structure, and function
- Relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will employ the help of the following materials:
- Flashcards showing human bones and joints
- A skeleton model or diagram of the human body
- Chalkboard or whiteboard for illustrations
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding the functions of bones and joints is crucial as it helps pupils comprehend how their body supports them in daily activities. This knowledge is also essential for appreciating the importance of physical health and movement.
Prerequisite/Previous Knowledge
Pupils are expected to have basic knowledge of the human body, especially the skeleton system, and understand how some joints in the body work.
Lesson Content
Functions of the Bones and Joints
The bones and joints in the human body work together to support and move the body.
Functions of Bones:
Bones provide support,protection,and structure to the body. They also store minerals and produce blood cells. The following are examples of bones and their functions:
- Skull – Protects the brain.
- Spine (Vertebrae) – Supports the body and protects the spinal cord.
- Femur – Helps support the body and aids in walking.
- Ribs – protects the heart and lungs.
- Pelvis – Supports the upper body and provides a place for the legs to move.
- Tibia – Supports the lower leg and helps in weight-bearing.
- Humerus – Supports the upper arm and allows for a wide range of motion.
Functions of Joints:
Joints are the points where two or more bones meet, allowing for movement and flexibility. These include:
- Knee Joint – Allows the legs to bend and extend.
- Elbow Joint – Allows the arms to bend and extend.
- Shoulder Joint – Allows the arms to move in different directions.
- Hip Joint – Allows the legs to move and support the weight of the body.
- Ankle Joint – Allows the feet to move up and down.
- Wrist Joint – Allows the hand to rotate and flex.
- Neck Joint – Allows the head to nod and turn.
Teaching Methods
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following methods: Exhibition, Questioning, Description, Visual Aids, Cooperative Learning, Hands-on Activity, Practice, Direct Instruction, Oral Questioning, Recap.
Instructional procedures
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following steps:
Step 1: Introduction
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Set Induction
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher will introduce the topic by asking pupils about what they know about bones and joints.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils respond by sharing their knowledge or asking questions.
Step 2: Explanation of Functions
Time: 10 mins
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher will explain the functions of bones and joints, referring to the flashcards and skeleton model.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and observe the models.
Step 3: Group Identification Activity
Time: 10 mins
Teaching skill: Cooperative learning
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher will divide the pupils into pairs to identify bones and joints on a skeleton model or each other.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils work in pairs to identify and discuss.
Step 4: Movement Practice
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Practice
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher demonstrates some movements using joints while pupils follow.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils perform body movements.
Step 5: Note-Taking
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Note-taking
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher will guide pupils to write down key points about the functions of bones and joints.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils write the note in their notebooks.
Step 6: Evaluation/Review
Time: 3 mins
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher asks questions to evaluate the pupils’ understanding of the lesson.
Pupils’ Activity: pupils respond orally to questions.
Objective-aligned checks:
- Explain the functions of bones and joints in the human body.
- Demonstrate body movements using their joints.
- Work in pairs to identify bones and joints on each other’s bodies.
Step 7: Conclusion
Time: 2 mins
Teaching Skill: Summary
Teacher’s Activity: The teacher summarizes the key points of the lesson.
Pupils’ Activity: Pupils listen and ask questions for clarification.
Lesson Keywords
- Bones – Rigid organs that form the skeleton.
- Joints – points where two or more bones connect, allowing movement.
- Skull – the bony framework of the head, protecting the brain.
- Spine – The backbone, providing support and protecting the spinal cord.
- Femur – The thigh bone, the longest and strongest bone in the body.
Lesson Evaluation
To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:
- What is the function of the femur?
- Can you name two joints in yoru body and tell their functions?
- Why are bones critically important for your body?
- How do joints help in body movement?
- What happens if you didn’t have any bones?
Assignment/Homework
- Draw a diagram of the human skeleton and label at least five bones and five joints.
- Write a short paragraph explaining why it is important to take care of your bones and joints.
- Research and list three different types of joints in the body, explaining how each one moves.
Differentiation
- For slower learners: Provide simplified diagrams and focus on the main functions of a few key bones and joints.
- For advanced learners: Encourage them to research different types of bone fractures and joint injuries, and how they are treated.
- For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use more visual aids, verbal explanations, and hands-on activities to cater to their learning styles.
Note for teachers
While delivering this lesson, ensure you actively engage the pupils by asking them questions and encouraging them to demonstrate movements. This will help reinforce their understanding.Use the visual aids effectively, and make sure every pupil gets the opportunity to participate in the group activity. Happy teaching!

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