Lessonn 1.2.5

Lesson 5—The Pancreas

 

Get Focused

left: © Marc Dietrich/shutterstock, rig© Hannamariah / Barbara Helgason/shutterstock

 

It is just before lunch, you are feeling hungry, tired, light-headed, and you are worried about a big exam in the afternoon. This is stress! What do you grab to eat? Are you the quick candy bar type, or are you the protein-based tuna sandwich type? Which one do you think would get rid of those symptoms you are experiencing, and get you through the exam without you having a complete collapse and meltdown? This situation is all about the pancreas and how it manages that blood sugar high, or low. For a diabetic this is a daily balancing act, and one that can have very serious consequences if not managed properly. Next time you are feeling exhausted, think about Emily and how her pancreas cannot regulate her blood sugar level. The tiny tumors growing in the islet cells of her pancreas cause havoc with the levels of her pancreatic hormones. That tuna sandwich will not make a difference for her, but the candy bar may save her life.

 

To understand the role of the pancreas in the endocrine system, you will investigate the following focusing question:

  • How does the pancreas contribute to homeostasis?

This lesson should take approximately 2.0 – 2.5 hours to complete.

 

Module 2: Lesson 5 Assignments

 

While you are completing this lesson, there will be many opportunities for you to learn, understand and practice the concepts that are presented. After completing these assignments as well as your summary notes, file everything in your course folder for reference when you are preparing for exams.

 

Remember, you have the option of trying additional questions from the textbook for further practice. Consult with your instructor for answers to these questions. “The Key” will provide you with many Diploma exam style multiple choice, numerical response, and written response questions that will be an excellent review of the module, as well as good preparation for the Diploma exam.

 Once you have completed all of the learning activities for this lesson, you can complete the online assignment.

Bio30 1.2.5 online assignment

You should also watch the tutorial video for this lesson. Bio30 tut#1.2.5 Blood sugar regulation

 

You must decide what to do with the questions that are not marked by the teacher.

 

Remember that these questions provide you with the practice and feedback that you need to successfully complete this course. You should respond to all of the questions and place those answers in your course folder.