Class: Primary 4
Term: 2nd Term
Subject: Basic Science And Technology
Curriculum Theme: Basic Science
Previous Lesson:
Topic: The Human Body: Types of Bones
Content/Learning Area: Long bones (femur, humerus), short bones (carpals, tarsals), flat bones (skull, ribs), irregular bones (vertebrae).
Time Allocation: 40 minutes
Performance Objectives
By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:
- Cognitive Domain: Identify the major types of bones in the human body.
- affective Domain: Appreciate the importance of bones in supporting and protecting the body.
- Psychomotor Domain: Point out the location of various types of bones on a model skeleton.
- Social Domain: Work collaboratively in groups to discuss the roles of bones in daily life.
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 Information from: Visible Body – Types of bones | Learn Skeleton Anatomy
- relevant Textbooks
Instructional Materials
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will use the following materials:
- A model human skeleton
- A chart showing the types of bones
- Flashcards with bone names and functions
Rationale for the Lesson
Understanding the types of bones helps pupils recognise the role of the skeletal system in support, movement, and protection. this knowledge is vital for understanding human anatomy and health.
Prerequisite/Previous knowledge
Pupils are familiar with the external parts of the body and their functions.
Lesson Content
The Human Body: Types of Bones
The human body is made up of many bones that form the skeletal system. These bones have different shapes and perform various functions. The four main types of bones are:
- Long Bones: These are longer than they are wide and include the femur (thigh bone) and humerus (arm bone). They help in movement and support. Examples are:
1. Femur (thigh bone)
2. Humerus (arm bone)
3. Tibia (shin bone)
4. Fibula (lower leg bone)
- Short Bones: These are cube-shaped and include carpals (wrist bones) and tarsals (ankle bones). They provide stability. Examples are:
1. Carpals (wrist bones)
2. Tarsals (ankle bones)
3. Metacarpals (bones in the hand)
4. Metatarsals (bones in the foot)
- Flat Bones: These are thin and flat, such as the skull and ribs. They protect vital organs like the brain and heart. Examples are:
1. Skull
2. Ribs
3. Sternum (breastbone)
4. Scapula (shoulder blade)
- Irregular Bones: These bones have complex shapes, such as vertebrae in the spine.They provide support and protection. Examples are:
1. Vertebrae (bones of the spine)
2. Sacrum (bone at the base of the spine)
3. Coccyx (tailbone)
4. Facial bones (e.g., zygomatic, mandible)
Teaching Methods
To deliver this lesson, the teacher will adopt the following methods: Visual Aids, Explanation, Discussion, Group Work, Interactive Session, Demonstration.
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: Asks pupils questions about body parts and introduces the skeletal system using a model.
Pupils’ Activity: Respond to questions and observe the skeleton model.
Step 2: Explanation of Bone Types
Time: 10 mins
Teaching Skill: Explanation
Teacher’s Activity: Explains the types of bones (long, short, flat, irregular) using charts and skeleton.
Pupils’ Activity: Listen attentively and take notes.
Step 3: Exploration Through Group Work
Time: 10 mins
Teaching Skill: Group Discussion
Teacher’s Activity: Organizes pupils into groups to identify and discuss examples of bones on the model.Pupils’ Activity: Identify and discuss examples of bones in groups.
Step 4: Note-Taking
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Guided learning
Teacher’s Activity: Guides pupils in copying the lesson note into their books.
Pupils’ Activity: Copy the note into their books.
Step 5: Evaluation/Review
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Questioning
Teacher’s Activity: Asks questions to evaluate pupils’ understanding of the topic.
Pupils’ Activity: Answer the teacher’s questions.
Step 6: Conclusion
Time: 5 mins
Teaching Skill: Summary
Teacher’s Activity: Summarizes the lesson and emphasizes key points.
Pupils’ Activity: Reflect on what they have learned.
Lesson Keywords
- Long Bones – Bones that are longer than they are wide, used for movement and support.
- Short Bones – Cube-shaped bones that provide stability.
- Flat Bones – Thin and flat bones that protect vital organs.
- Irregular Bones – Bones with complex shapes that provide support and protection.
- Skeleton – The framework of bones that supports the body.
Lesson Evaluation
To evaluate the learning, the teacher asks pupils to:
- Mention the four types of bones.
- Identify examples of each type of bone.
- Explain the function of flat bones in the body.
- point out the femur and humerus on the model skeleton.
- discuss why bones are crucial to the human body.
Assignment/Homework
- Draw and label examples of each type of bone.
- Write a short paragraph explaining the importance of bones in the human body.
- Research and list three additional examples of each type of bone.
Differentiation
- For slower learners: Provide simplified diagrams and one-on-one assistance to identify bones on the model.
- For advanced learners: Challenge them to research bone disorders and their effects on bone structure.
- For visual/auditory/kinesthetic learners: Use visual aids, verbal explanations, and hands-on activities with the model skeleton.
note for teachers
Ensure that the model skeleton and charts are clearly visible to all pupils. Engage pupils actively through questioning and group activities to sustain their interest and participation. Happy teaching!

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