Pig Kidney Dissection: Human Connections

Pig Kidney Dissection: Human Connections

Exploring anatomy through practical investigation Understanding human kidney structure and function Year 8 Biology - NSW Curriculum

Why Study Pig Kidneys?

Pig organs are very similar to human organs Safe and ethical way to study anatomy Helps us understand kidney disease and health Develops practical scientific skills

Safety First - Laboratory Rules

Wear safety glasses and aprons Use scalpels and scissors carefully Wash hands thoroughly before and after Report any cuts or accidents immediately Work respectfully with specimens

Kidney Structure Overview

External Examination Activity

Observe the kidney's shape and size Identify the renal artery and vein Locate the ureter attachment point Feel the texture of the outer capsule Record observations in your lab book

Making the First Cut

Cut along the curved outer edge Slice from top to bottom Cut about halfway through the kidney Open like a book to see internal structure Take your time - accuracy is important

Internal Structures - What Can You See?

{"left":"Dark outer region (cortex)\nLighter inner region (medulla)\nCentral cavity (pelvis)","right":"Branching tubes (collecting ducts)\nBlood vessels throughout\nSmooth inner lining"}

Connection to Human Health

How might kidney disease affect these structures? Why do we have two kidneys? What happens if a kidney is damaged? How does this relate to kidney transplants?

How Kidneys Filter Blood

Blood enters through renal artery Tiny filters called nephrons clean the blood Waste becomes urine in collecting ducts Clean blood returns via renal vein Urine travels down the ureter to bladder

Wrap-up and Clean-up

Complete your observation drawings Answer the reflection questions Clean and dispose of specimens properly Wash all tools and surfaces Remove safety equipment last Wash hands thoroughly