Exploring the Nervous System
Grade 5th Grade · Science · 45 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can identify the main parts of the nervous system.
Reading Passage
Your Body's Message Center
Have you ever wondered how your body sends messages? It's all thanks to your nervous system! The nervous system is like your body's super-fast communication network. It helps you do everything from wiggling your toes to remembering your best friend's name.
The nervous system has three main parts: the brain, the spinal cord, and nerves. The brain is like the control center of your body. It's where all your thoughts, feelings, and memories are stored. The spinal cord is a long bundle of nerves that runs down your back. It connects the brain to the rest of your body. Nerves are like tiny wires that carry messages back and forth between the brain, the spinal cord, and all other parts of your body.
When you touch something hot, the nerves in your hand send a message to your spinal cord, which quickly sends a message to your brain. Your brain tells your hand to move away fast! All of this happens in a split second. The nervous system is always working to keep you safe and help you understand the world around you. It’s a pretty amazing system!
Warm-Up Video
Amoeba Sisters · 11:32
Nervous System
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The nervous system has two main parts: the central nervous system which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system which includes the nerves.
- 2
The brain has three main regions: the hindbrain, the midbrain, and the forebrain.
- 3
The peripheral nervous system (PNS) can be divided into the somatic nervous system which controls skeletal muscles, and the autonomic nervous system which controls internal organs.
Practice Questions
7 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Name the two main parts of the nervous system.”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
