Breathing and respiration

5. The exchange of gases

Required Resources

• Slides 8-10
• Video: Brass band

Delivery

• Slides 8-9 explain the process of gaseous exchange, focussing on the role of the alveoli in transferring oxygen into the bloodstream and transferring carbon dioxide out.
• Slide 10 features an image of a musician in an Army band. Students should work in pairs to answer the questions on the slide, sharing their findings with the class. Questions support understanding of the process of gaseous exchange, and the importance of this process to the body.
• Play the accompanying video which features a trumpeter in an Armed Forces band. Efficient respiratory control is essential if he is to play and simultaneously march alongside his fellow bandsmen.

Differentiation

Higher Ability:

Ask any students that play a wind instrument to bring these to the class. Invite demonstration of the need for controlled breathing e.g. sustained notes, volume control. This gives those students that do not play a wind instrument to the class the opportunity to play and will demonstrate the need for effective diaphragm control.