1.1.a. The structure and function of the skeletal system - Functions of the skeleton — OCR GCSE Physical Education
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1.1.a. The structure and function of the skeletal system - Functions of the skeleton explained
This target asks you to explain six functions of the skeleton and apply each to a sporting or everyday example.
Read the full explanation
Support means the skeleton holds the body upright and gives it a framework, as when the vertebrae and leg bones keep a runner standing. Posture means the skeleton holds the body in the correct alignment, as when the vertebrae and pelvis keep a gymnast balanced. Protection means bones shield soft organs: the cranium protects the brain, the ribs and sternum protect the heart and lungs, and the vertebrae protect the spinal cord. Movement means bones act as levers with muscles and joints, as when the humerus, radius and ulna swing the arm in a throw. Blood cell production happens in bone marrow, for example in the pelvis and femur. Storage of minerals means bones hold calcium and phosphorus and release them when the body needs them.
Your focus
- State each of the six functions of the skeleton
- Apply each function to a named bone and a sporting or everyday example
- Distinguish closely related functions such as support and posture
1.1.a. The structure and function of the skeletal system - Functions of the skeleton exam tips
Marking Points
- Explains support as the skeleton holding the body upright and giving it a framework, with a named example
- Explains posture as the skeleton holding the body in correct alignment, with a named example
- Explains protection by naming a bone and the organ it shields, such as the cranium protecting the brain
- Explains movement by linking bones acting as levers with muscles and joints, with a named example
- Explains blood cell production as occurring in bone marrow, naming a bone such as the pelvis or femur
- Explains storage of minerals as bones holding calcium and phosphorus and releasing them when needed
Examiner Tips
- 💡For each function, give a named bone plus a clear example so the application is explicit
- 💡Keep support and posture distinct by describing upright framework versus correct alignment
- 💡Use a sporting context, such as a gymnast's posture or a thrower's arm levers, to show application
Common Mistakes
- Treats support and posture as the same function; support is holding the body upright and posture is holding it in correct alignment
- Names protection without saying which organ is protected; always pair the bone with the organ, such as the ribs and sternum protecting the heart and lungs
- Says movement happens because bones contract; muscles contract and bones act as levers with joints
- Places blood cell production in the joints; it occurs in bone marrow inside bones such as the pelvis and femur
- Says bones only store minerals without explaining release; state that stored calcium and phosphorus are released when the body needs them