1. Unit 2 Physiology & Health
Higher Human Biology
Unit 2
Physiology & Health
KEY AREA 1: Reproductive Organs

2. Higher Human Biology Key Area 1 – Reproductive Organs
We are going to build on the knowledge and skills that you developed during N5 and will learn about the following Physiology & Health key areas : -
Key Area 1 – Reproductive Organs
Key Area 2 –Hormonal Control of Reproduction
Key Area 3 – Biology of Controlling Fertility
Key Area 4 – Ante- and Postnatal Screening
Key Area 5 – Structure and Function of Arteries, Capillaries and Veins
Key Area 6 – Structure and Function of the heart
Key Area 7 – Pathology of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)
Key Area 8 – Blood Glucose Levels and Obesity

3. Physiology & Health Learning Intentions
KEY AREA 1 – Structure & Function of the Reproductive Organs
Gamete production in the testes
Gamete production in the ovaries
Site of fertilisation

4. Reproduction Introduction (N5 Revision)
What is the role of the ovary and testes?
Define fertilisation
Where does fertilisation occur?

5. 1a) Male Reproductive System
The testes produce sperm and the
hormone testosterone
Sperm are formed from germline cells in tiny tubes called seminiferous tubules found in the testes
Seminiferous tubules unite together to form coiled tubes that link to the sperm duct
The sperm leave the testes through the sperm duct
Testosterone is produced by interstitial cells found in the tissue between the
seminiferous tubules and passes directly into the bloodstream
Sperm are motile and require a fluid to swim in and a source of energy

6. 1b) Male Accessory Glands
Fertilisation depends on the motility of sperm.
For efficient motility, sperm require a fluid medium and a source of energy.
Seminal vesicles secrete a fluid rich in fructose (to provide energy) and hormonal-like compounds (to stimulate contractions of the female reproductive tract)
The prostate gland secretes a thin, lubricating liquid containing enzymes which help to keep the fluid at the optimum viscosity for sperm motility
Semen is the collective name to the milky liquid released by the male
Semen contains sperm from the testes, and fluid secretions from the seminal vesicles and prostate gland that maintain the mobility and viability of sperm

7. 1c) Female Reproductive System
Ova (eggs) are the female gametes and they are produced from germline cells in the ovaries
The ovaries contain immature ova at various stages of development
Each ovum is surrounded by a follicle, which secretes the hormone oestrogen and protects the developing ovum
After ovulation (release of the ovum), the follicle develops into a corpus luteum (a hormone secreting body)
The corpus luteum then secretes the hormone progesterone which causes changes in the uterus to make it more suitable for implantation of the blastocyst

8. 1d) Fertilisation
Fertilisation is when the nucleus of a sperm fuses with the nucleus of an ovum
During sexual intercourse, the sperm are released into the vagina and move through the cervix, the uterus and into the oviducts where they may meet an ovum
Fertilisation occurs in the oviduct. The fertilised ovum is called a Zygote
Oviduct

9. Physiology & Health Questions
KEY AREA 1 – Structure & Function of Reproductive Organs
Testing Your Knowledge 1 Page Q’s 1 & 2
2. Quick Quiz