7. Critique: On this page, describe the advantages and disadvantages of the model of human homeostasis used in the Gizmo. In what ways is the model realistic? What factors are not included in the model?​

PRIOR KNOWLEDGE QUESTIONS (Do these BEFORE using the Gizmo.)

A thermostat is a device that regulates the temperature inside a building.

Answer the questions on your student sheet.

GIZMO WARM-UP

To survive, an organism must be able to maintain stable

internal conditions in a changing environment. This

process is called homeostasis.

The Human Homeostasis Gizmo™ allows you to explore

how the human body stays at a nearly constant

temperature in different conditions.

Notice the Air temp. and Body temp. thermometers

representing the air temperature and body temperature.

Answer the questions on your student sheet.

1. What is the initial air temperature?

2. What is the initial body temperature?

3. Next to each factor, write “increase,” “decrease,” or “same” based on how you

expect that factor to affect body temperature.

The model in the Human Homeostasis Gizmo is realistic because it shows the effects of exercise, sweating, clothing, body position, sweating, and outside temperature on human body temperature. The Gizmo also illustrates the relationship between sweating and dehydration and the relationship between exercising and hunger. Several factors are not considered in the Gizmo. These include blood flow to the skin (vasoconstriction and vasodilation), metabolism, body fat, body shape, age, and other individual characteristics. Every person reacts to hot or cold temperatures differently and may need a different amount of clothing, exercise, or sweating to maintain a constant body temperature in hot or cold weather.