Module 3 Lesson 4 - 1

Get Focused

Being male is a process that starts with a chromosomal arrangement founded at fertilization, and is not complete until maturation happens in puberty. Being genetically male means the chromosomal arrangement of an X and Y chromosome. This chromosome arrangement then causes testosterone to start being produced. The secretion of testosterone then causes the formation of the male genitalia of a fetus in utero (in the uterus). The right timing and proper amount of testosterone produced helps mature the male reproductive system so that continuation of the species is possible.

You will investigate the following focusing questions:

• How is sex determined at conception?
• How do the X and Y chromosomes and hormonal influences form gonad and reproductive organs in the female and male embryo and fetus?
• What are the male reproductive hormones?
• How do hormones maintain homeostasis in the male reproductive system?
• What role do the male hormones play in regulating the primary and secondary sex characteristics?