The Human Skeleton (OCR GCSE Physical Education (PE)): Revision Note

Functions of the skeleton

• The ‘skeletal system' is a term used to describe the system of bones within the body

• Alongside muscles, it provides a framework for movement 

• It provides a structural shape to our body. Good posture enables sporting moves, such as running, to be efficient

• Flat bones, such as the cranium, protect our internal organs from damage or injury 

  • In contact sports such as boxing the cranium protects the brain from being damaged when being punched 

• The muscular system attaches to the skeleton which provides a system of levers and creates movement 

  • When muscles contract, they pull on the bones and cause movement at the joint. For example, the bicep attaches to the radius creating movement at the elbow joint 

• Certain large bones in the skeleton have a central cavity inside them which contains bone marrow which produces blood cells 

  • Red blood cells are important in sport as they transport oxygen around the body 

  • White blood cells help combat illness 

  • Platelets help the blood clot 

• Bones store minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium and phosphorus. These are slowly released into the blood when the body needs to use them

  • Calcium helps build and repair muscles 

  • Iron helps transport oxygen to the muscle cells