OCR GCSE (9-1) Biology - The endocrine system

This resources is designed for the OCR Biology GCSE, particularly the ‘B3 - Organism-Level Systems’ scheme of work.

This lesson begins with a recap on the structures and function of the endocrine system, it then moves on to look at the positions of the different glands involved in the endocrine system. Pupils are shown an image of a human body (also can be given as a worksheet) and should discuss in pairs which glands fall into which position on the diagram. After the answers have been revealed, and are then assessed, pupils will now need to discuss the function of each of the glands. From a list of descriptions, pupils should try and match the name of the gland to the hormone it produces, this work can then be self-assessed.

In the next activity pupils are required to draw a table and then in groups/per table they are given a set of cards which they then need to sort into the correct spaces on their table to summarise the main role of the hormones secreted by 5 glands - the pituitary, the thyroid, the pancreas, the ovaries and the testes. This work can then be assessed using the answers provided.

Pupils can then complete a ‘silent 5’ set of questions on the topic they have covered so far, they should try and complete the questions on their own but for lower ability groups they may want to try discuss in pairs before answering.

The final activity is an exam paper question on hormone levels, once completed pupils can use the mark scheme to mark their own work.

All resources are included at the end of the presentation. Thanks for looking, if you have any questions please let me know in the comments section and any feedback would be appreciated :)