Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3
DISEASES AND DISORDERS
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DISEASES AND DISORDERS
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Subject: Biomedical Science
Class: SHS 3
Term: 1st Term
Week: 18
Grade code: 2.2.2.LI.2
Strand code: 2
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 2.2.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.2.2.LI.2
Theme: HUMAN BODY SYSTEMS
Subtheme: DISEASES AND DISORDERS
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This lesson explores the endocrine system, the body's intricate network of glands and hormones that act as chemical messengers. We will learn how this system regulates everything from our mood and energy levels to our growth and metabolism. In Ghana, we often see or hear about conditions like diabetes ("sugar disease") or goitre (a swelling in the neck). These are real-world examples of what happens when this delicate system goes out of balance.
2.1 The Endocrine System: The Body's Wireless Network
Think of the endocrine system as the body's "WhatsApp" or messaging service. Instead of sending text messages, it sends chemical messages called hormones. These messages are produced by special organs called endocrine glands. Endocrine Glands: These are ductless glands, meaning they release hormones directly into the bloodstream. The blood then carries these hormones all over the body. Hormones: These are powerful chemical messengers. Each hormone is designed to work on specific cells or tissues, called target cells. A hormone acts like a key that only fits a specific lock (the receptor on the target cell). 2.2 The Principle of Balance (Homeostasis)
The most important job of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis—a stable, balanced internal environment. Think of the thermostat in an air conditioner. If the room gets too hot, the thermostat turns the AC on. If it gets too cold, it turns it off. The endocrine system does this for things like blood sugar, body temperature, metabolism, and growth.
Disorders arise when this balance is lost. This usually happens in two ways: Hyper-secretion: A gland produces too much of a hormone. (Hyper = high/above). Hypo-secretion: A gland produces too little of a hormone. (Hypo = low/below). 2.3 Key Glands, Hormones, and Their Malfunctions