Introduction to Circulatory System

CIRCULATORY SYSTEM

Learning Objectives

• Parts or components of the circulatory system

• Functions of the circulatory system

• Differences between arteries, veins and capillaries

The main function of the circulatory system is to pump blood through the body.

Another name for circulatory is cardiovascular. Cardio = Heart

Vascular = veins.

The heart is a muscle. A very powerful special muscle that pumps blood through our bodies. The heart is the size of a human fist.

Heart

• The heart is similar to a pump or two pumps in one.

• The movement of blood through the heart and around the body is called circulation.

• It takes your heart 60 seconds to pump blood to every cell in your body.

Blood Vessels

Blood vessels transport blood to your body. There are two types of blood vessels; arteries and veins.

Arteries

Arteries carry blood AWAY from the heart. A good way to remember this is that the word artery/arteries start with the letter A just like the word Away.

Multiple Choice

Arteries carry blood _______ from the heart.

• Away

• Towards

Veins

Veins carry blood towards the heart.

Multiple Choice

Veins carry blood __________ the heart.

• Away

• Towards

Multiple Choice

What does the circulatory system do?

• Breaks down our food

• Decide our traits

• Transports blood throughout our body

Multiple Choice

Our circulatory system is made up of the heart, arteries, and veins.

• True

• False

Multiple Choice

What is the function of the heart?

• To pump blood around the body
• To remove oxygen from the blood
• To allow blood to flow through it 
• To breath