The framework of bones

The idea

The skeletal system is a framework of bones, including the skull, vertebral column and rib cage, that provides strength and protects delicate internal organs.

Under the skin

Feel your head and your chest. Hard bone lies just under the skin. Soft organs such as the brain and the lungs are inside.

What job might these bones do for the organs?

• Protect them like a case or a cage
• Make them heavier
• Hold them outside the body

Explore the skeleton

Choose each part, then switch on the delicate organs.

Strength and protection

The skeleton is a framework of bones. The skull, the vertebral column and the rib cage are parts of it. Besides giving strength and support, these bones protect soft, delicate organs inside the body.

The skeletal system is a framework of bones, including the skull, vertebral column and rib cage, that provides strength and protects delicate internal organs.

Notes

The skeletal system, a framework of bones (skull, vertebral column, rib cage), gives strength and protects delicate organs.

Check yourself

What is the skeletal system?

Which three parts does the skeletal system include?

The skull is a hard case of flat bones. What does it protect?

The rib cage acts like a protective cage for which vital organs?

• A group of muscles that pull on bones. Muscles are part of the musculoskeletal system. The skeletal system is the framework of bones.
• A network of cells that carry messages. That is nervous tissue.
• A framework of bones that gives strength and protects delicate organs — correct. Yes!
• The skull, the vertebral column and the rib cage — correct. Yes!
• The brain, the heart and the lungs. These are delicate organs. The skeleton is what protects them.
• The skull, tendons and ligaments. Tendons and ligaments are connective tissues. The skeletal system includes the skull, vertebral column and rib cage.
• The heart and lungs. The rib cage protects the heart and lungs.
• The brain, eyes and ears — correct. Yes!
• The spinal cord and ribs. The skull protects the brain, eyes and ears.
• The brain and eyes. The skull protects the brain, eyes and ears.
• The ears and eyes. The skull protects the brain, eyes and ears. The rib cage protects the heart and lungs.
• The heart and lungs — correct. Yes!