Contextualization

Biology is a science that studies life in its various forms, from microorganisms to complex beings like humans. In this context, one of the fundamental topics to understand life is the Circulatory System, which is responsible for distributing blood, and consequently nutrients and oxygen, to all parts of the body, collecting metabolic waste and conducting it to excretory organs.

There are various types of circulatory systems among different animals. In some, like arthropods and most mollusks, the system is open, meaning the blood leaves the vessels and falls into body cavities where it bathes the tissues. In others, like vertebrates, the system is closed, that is, the blood always circulates within blood vessels.

The importance of studying the Circulatory System in animals is indisputable, especially for those who wish to pursue careers in the health field, such as Medicine, Veterinary or Biology. But beyond that, this study also helps us understand the evolution and adaptability of animals to the most distinct living conditions.

Introduction

The Circulatory System is one of the most complex and vital biological systems for the survival of living beings. It is composed of a network of blood vessels through which blood circulates, driven by a propelling organ, the heart. In addition, the Circulatory System is directly linked to other systems, such as the Respiratory, Digestive, and Excretory systems.

The number of hearts, the existence and organization of blood vessels, the presence of colored or colorless blood, and the way blood is pumped are some of the aspects that vary among the different circulatory systems of animals. Understanding these variations is essential to understand how each animal interacts with its environment and adapts to its specific conditions.

Students will explore the diversity of circulatory systems, learning about the differences and similarities between them, and how these differences influence other aspects of the animal's biology. In addition, the project will also highlight the application of these concepts in Medicine, Veterinary, and Environmental Sciences.

Practical Activity: "The Journey of Animal Blood"

Project Objective

This activity aims to allow students to explore the diversity of circulatory systems in different groups of animals and the importance of these systems for the survival of individuals. Additionally, it aims to develop research skills, teamwork, time management, and the ability to produce scientific reports.

Detailed Project Description

Students will be divided into groups of three to five. Each group will be responsible for researching and presenting one of the following types of circulatory systems: Open Circulatory System, Simple Closed Circulatory System, and Double Closed Circulatory System. Additionally, they should compare these systems with the Human Circulatory System.

For each type of system, students should identify at least one representative animal and explain the physical and biological characteristics that result in the peculiarities of its circulatory system. They should also relate the characteristics of the circulatory system to the habits and environment of each chosen animal.

Required Materials

• Books and/or scientific articles on animal anatomy and circulatory systems.
• Internet access for complementary research.
• Paper, cardboard, pencils, and colored pens for making posters.

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Completion

1. Divide into groups of three to five students, and each group chooses a type of circulatory system to research.
2. Research the characteristics of the chosen circulatory system type and choose a representative animal of that system.
3. Identify and document the physical and biological characteristics that result in the peculiarities of the chosen animal's circulatory system, including the relationship of the circulatory system with the habits and environment of the animal.
4. Create a detailed poster, using the group's drawing skills to represent the circulatory system of the chosen animal and highlight its peculiarities.
5. Compare the circulatory system of the chosen animal with the Human Circulatory System and point out the main differences and similarities.
6. Present your findings to the class in a 15-20 minute presentation.

Project Deliverables

Groups will produce three types of final products:

1. An illustrative and informative poster of the circulatory system of the chosen animal.
2. An oral presentation about your animal and its circulatory system.
3. A detailed report documenting the entire process, from initial research to project completion.

The report should follow the following structure:

Introduction: Contextualization of the Circulatory System, with emphasis on the type chosen by the group, relevance and real-world application, as well as the objective of this project.

Development: In this section, students should explain the theory of the chosen circulatory system, describe the research methodology, the process of creating the poster and the presentation, and discuss their results.

Conclusion: Here, students should summarize their main points, highlighting the learnings obtained during the project, focusing on biological aspects, teamwork, and time management.

Bibliography: In this final section, students should list all sources of information used during the project, including books, web pages, videos, etc.

It is expected that by the end of the project, students will be able to differentiate between the different circulatory systems of animals and have acquired important skills such as time management, communication, problem-solving, and creative thinking.