We are excited to introduce our new addition to the Human Anatomy series of materials for your Montessori classroom! What are the benefits of studying the human vertebrae? What are their functions so important to know? The human vertebrae are the individual bones that make up our spine or backbone, which runs from the base of our skull to our lower back. We have 33 vertebrae, and they serve many important functions. One crucial role of the vertebrae is to protect our delicate spinal cord, which runs through a hollow canal in the center of the vertebrae. The vertebrae also provide support to our body, allowing us to stand upright and maintain balance. Each vertebra has a unique shape and structure, consisting of a round body at the front, a bony arch that forms a protective ring around the spinal cord, and various processes that connect with muscles, ligaments, and other bones. These structures work together to make our spine flexible and bend in different directions. By learning about the human vertebrae, we develop an understanding of the importance of taking care of our spine through proper posture, exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In this post, you will explore the way our puzzle is laid out and suggestions on how to introduce the materials.
Materials
- Parts of a Vertebrae Puzzle
- Parts of a Vertebrae Research Cards
- Parts of a Vertebrae Puzzle with Research Cards
Related materials: Human Skeleton Model, Parts of a Human Skeleton Puzzle, Parts of a Human Skeleton
How is the Puzzle Organized?
Control Chart
The Control Chart provides different perspectives of the different vertebrae using scientific terminology: Lateral view, front view, top view, elevation, and side view. Introduce the topic by reading the research card labeled “Vertebral Column.” Invite your learners to observe the puzzle, label the parts, or reconstruct the puzzle. Ask your learners if they notice the way in which the vertebral column is divided. Explain that there are three regions to the vertebral column: Cervical vertebrae, thoracic vertebrae, and lumbar vertebrae.
Cervical Vertebrae
Introduce the cervical vertebrae first. Explain the Latin origin of the term “vertebrae” and that “vertebrae” is the plural of “vertebra.” Read the corresponding research cards on “Cervical Vertebrae” and the “Fifth Cervical Vertebra.” All cervical vertebrae have small holes, allowing the spinal cord to pass through. The spinal cord is an important pathway for messages between your brain and the rest of your body. The cervical vertebrae are connected by strong ligaments, like stretchy bands that hold the blocks together. These ligaments help keep your neck stable and prevent it from wobbling.
Thoracic Vertebrae
Now is a good time to ask your learners about what could make the vertebral column flexible. There are 12 thoracic vertebrae connected by intervertebral discs. Introduce the research card on “Intervertebral Disc,” and refer to the part of the puzzle where the intervertebral disc is located. Continue introducing the second part of the vertebral column, “Thoracic Vertebrae,” using the corresponding research cards: “Thoracic Vertebrae,” “Seventh Thoracic Vertebra” and “Eleventh Thoracic Vertebra.” Have learners label the parts, count the vertebrae on the puzzle, and notice the 12 intervertebral discs.
Lumbar Vertebrae
The lumbar vertebrae form the third region of the vertebral column. They are important for helping us stand up straight, bend over, and twist our torso. They also help protect our spinal cord, a bundle of nerves that carries messages between our brain and the rest of our body. You may have your learners label this part of the puzzle and read the corresponding research card: “Lumbar Vertebrae.”
Sacrum & Coccyx
Together, the sacrum and coccyx form the posterior wall of the pelvis. The sacrum is located at the base of the spine and connects to the hip bones on either side. The sacrum helps to support the upper body’s weight and transmits forces between the spine and the legs. made up of three to five fused vertebrae. The coccyx does not have a major function in humans, but it does provide some support in the seated position. Have your learners locate the parts of the puzzle, which you read the corresponding research cards “Sacrum” and “Coccyx.”
Finally, encourage your learners to express their opinions about the amazing structure of the vertebral column. For an enhanced experience, you may want to display a 3D vertebral column model on your shelf. Have your learners draw the vertebral column in their science journals and label it. This lesson could also be tied to comparative research between the human vertebral column and other vertebrates. For more innovative Montessori-aligned science materials, visit our website at www.alisonsmontessori.com.
