MODULE TWO: THE INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM
Section 1: Skin
Introduction
The skin is the largest organ in the body. It carries out many vital functions such as
protection, sensation, temperature regulation and fluid and electrolyte balance. An
understanding of the structure and function of the skin and its associated structures will
demonstrate the importance of the skin to homeostasis.
Text References
Chapter 5: The Integumentary System
Objectives
1. Explain why the skin is classified as an organ (Hint: recall the definition of an organ)
2. For each of the following regions of the skin,
a) Locate the region on a diagram
b) Identify the function of the region
c) Name the types of tissue(s) found in each
i. Epidermis
ii. Dermis
iii. Subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis)
3. Describe how the skin contributes to the functions of:
a) Protection
b) Sensory awareness
c) Temperature regulation
d) Fluid and electrolyte balance (see sec 5.8)
e) Elimination of wastes
f) Synthesis of Vitamin D
1
Section 1: Skin
Introduction
The skin is the largest organ in the body. It carries out many vital functions such as
protection, sensation, temperature regulation and fluid and electrolyte balance. An
understanding of the structure and function of the skin and its associated structures will
demonstrate the importance of the skin to homeostasis.
Text References
Chapter 5: The Integumentary System
Objectives
1. Explain why the skin is classified as an organ (Hint: recall the definition of an organ)
2. For each of the following regions of the skin,
a) Locate the region on a diagram
b) Identify the function of the region
c) Name the types of tissue(s) found in each
i. Epidermis
ii. Dermis
iii. Subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis)
3. Describe how the skin contributes to the functions of:
a) Protection
b) Sensory awareness
c) Temperature regulation
d) Fluid and electrolyte balance (see sec 5.8)
e) Elimination of wastes
f) Synthesis of Vitamin D
1
