Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: Explain how structure and function are related in arteries, veins and capillaries.
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the three structural layers of arteries, veins and capillaries.
  • Explain how each vessel’s structure enables its specific function in the circulatory system.
  • Compare arteries, veins and capillaries to illustrate the link between form and physiological role.
  • Interpret a cross‑sectional diagram to identify key structural features.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint slides with vessel diagrams
  • Printed handout of the comparison table
  • Model of a blood vessel (optional)
  • Exit‑ticket cards
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick “What moves through our bodies?” brainstorm to activate prior knowledge of blood flow. Show a short animation of blood travelling through the heart and vessels, then state today’s success criteria: identify structures of arteries, veins and capillaries and link them to their functions.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5'): Students list three differences they already know between arteries and veins.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present the three‑layer structure of arteries, then discuss elastic recoil and muscular tone.
  3. Interactive comparison (10'): Show the comparison table; students fill in missing features on their handouts.
  4. Vein & capillary focus (10'): Demonstrate valve function with a simple model; explain capillary thin walls and surface area.
  5. Diagram analysis (8'): Groups label a cross‑sectional diagram, highlighting tunics, lumen size and valves.
  6. Check for understanding (5'): Quick quiz via Kahoot or show‑of‑hands questions.
  7. Exit ticket (2'): Write one way the structure of each vessel type supports its function.
Conclusion:
Recap the key link: thick, elastic walls → high‑pressure transport (arteries); large lumen + valves → low‑pressure return (veins); one‑cell wall → efficient exchange (capillaries). Collect exit tickets and assign a short homework: create a labelled sketch of a capillary and annotate its functional advantages.