Module 3
1. Module 3
1.29. Page 2
Module 3—The Male and Female Reproductive Systems
Explore
To understand how the female reproductive system is controlled by hormones, complete the following readings and view the video. Remember to prepare summary notes, including labelled diagrams, flow charts, and feedback loops of the material you are learning. Store this information in your course folder.
Read
The hormonal control of the female reproductive system is much more complex than in the male reproductive system. Read pages 495 to 499 in the textbook, beginning at “Hormonal Regulation of the Female Reproductive System” to understand how puberty begins, the control of the menstrual cycle, and what happens at the end of the reproductive years in a female. Remember to make notes and illustrations to help you understand the secretion and control of the female sex hormones.
Watch and Listen
Watch the video “Hormonal Controls and the Menstrual Cycle: The Renewal of Life.” The video compares the cyclical patterns of reproduction in humans with that of other mammals, and reviews the female reproductive structures and development of the secondary sex characteristics.
Try This
Complete this drag-and-drop activity to determine whether you understand the functions of female sex hormones in the body.
Discuss
In the course discussion area, discuss one, a few, or all of the following questions.
D 1. When is a woman considered to be suffering from amenorrhea?
D 2. If a woman has very low levels of FSH and LH, how does this affect her reproductive system?
D 3. Should there be a minimum mass (weight) that female models and athletes need to meet in order to work professionally or compete?
D 4. Do you like the look of female body builders? Why or why not?
D 5. How important is it to you to have a properly functioning reproductive system?