Human Body as Perfect Complex Machine

Body coordination is a skill that significantly affects how well our bodies operate, even when we carry out a simple specific motion like fluttering our eyelashes, a process from molecular level takes place inside our body. As soon as we wake up, every organ in the body is at work.  Like a mechanical device, when in use, the human body moves. 

The human body is a complicated machine that utilizes numerous systems in combination to function correctly and effectively. The muscular, skeletal, cardio-respiratory, integumentary, nervous, and endocrine systems are just a few examples of the systems that are needed to function in order to complete a simple action.

The cardiovascular and respiratory systems carry and deliver the oxygen and nutrients the body needs to move; the integumentary system shields all other organs from physical harm while moving; the muscular system, which is made up of muscle fibers are responsible for majority of human movement;  the nervous system which helps send message back and forth to brain and the body to carry out movement; the skeletal system, which serves as the foundation of the human body and also aids in allowing the human movement; and the endocrine system which helps regulates biological processes in human body. 

The human body need energy to sustain and carry out physical action, much like a mechanical engine would cease to operate when its fuel ran out. Humans therefore require food that provides energy in order to move and function effectively. Studying energy expenditure, particularly the metabolic rate at which the body consumes energy during physical exercise, would help us better understand this.

As mentioned by W. Larry Kenny et.al. in Physiology of Sport and Exercise, "the range for total daily expenditure is highly variable and depends on physical activity, age, sex, body size, weight and body composition".  Each physical activity uses different amount of energy. They also made it clear that intensity and duration of the activity must be considered in determining the expended energy. 

However, no matter the age, body types, sex, gender, or body composition,  the human body wears out and eventually breaks down like any other machine. The impairment of muscle performance with sustained effort and generalized feelings of exhaustion are symptoms of fatigue.  Like a mechanical engine, the human body can become exhausted or run out of fuel, which is why it's important to rest.

Follow-up Questions: 

1. What are the several body systems mentioned in the article?

2. How do these body systems support human movement?

3. Do you agree that the human body is an ideal example of a complex machine? Why?

References: 

1.  W. Larry Kenny, PhD, Jack H. Wilmore, PhD, David L. Hostiel, PhD. 2015. Physiology of Sport and Exercise. ISBN 978-1-4504-77767-3 (print).

Obesity among students is prevalent but preventable.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 340 million school-age children and teenagers, specifically those between the ages of 5 and 19, were overweight or obese in 2020. One way to determine whether a student is obese is to calculate their body mass index (BMI). In the Philippines, one of the duties of the classroom adviser is to monitor and keep track of the Learner's Basic Health and Nutrition Report, also known as the automated School Form 8 (SF8), which provides a precise count of the number of students who fall into the categories of severely wasted, wasted, normal, overweight, and obese.

Studies have shown that frequent inactivity and unhealthy dietary habits, especially the consumption of junk food, are the main causes of obesity among students. Students are more exposed and more prone to indulge in fast food because of the industry's rapid expansion across the nation. The study of Robert W. Jefferey et.al. stated that, "eating at "fast food" restaurants was positively associated with having children, a high fat diet, and Body Mass Index (BMI)."

Students who are obese often times have trouble breathing while working on simple tasks at school. They also tire easily and are more likely to nod off during lectures.  In a research journal about obesity, it was discussed by Kirsi H. Pietilainen et.al., that physical inactivity in adolescence strongly and independently predicts total abdominal obesity in young adulthood, favoring the development of a self-perpetuating vicious circle of obesity and physical inactivity.

It was also mentioned in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition that obesity is associated with different non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as increased risk of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), hypertension, cardio-vascular disease, gallbladder disease and cholecystectomy, and colon and postmenopausal breast cancer.  

In addition to health problems, stigmatizing obese students is another unfavorable effect of obesity. Students who are obese are frequently referred to some derogatory and backhanded terms linked with being overweight. Students who experienced stigma because of their weight usually experienced bullying and a sense of estrangement.

Obesity is preventable. A healthy-fiber-rich diet that includes foods like beans, grains, corn, wheat bread or pasta, broccoli, pineapple, mango, and other similar foods, together with regular participation in a variety of physical activities as part of daily routine, will also assist eradicate those unwanted fats and extra pounds. 

It is advisable to motivate these students to participate in healthy physical activity by getting them interested in sports teams and other organizations that support physical exercise for preventing childhood obesity rather than discriminating against them. Supporting these students emotionally and morally is also crucial. So it's highly advised to have moral and emotional support from the parents, peers, and teachers.

The problem of obesity among students is real and prevalent, but it may be avoided with the right direction from the responsible and caring party or individual, self-control, and self-discipline.

Follow up Questions: 

1. What are the various issues related to obesity that are brought up in the article?

2. What other strategies can you suggest to combat student obesity?

References: 

1. https://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2007.72

2. https://doi.org/10.1093/1jcn/55.2.503s

Strands offered in Senior High School (Philippines)

The Senior High School program was implemented across the country by the Department of Education in June 2016. This gives students options for specializing in fields related to their intended professional path.

Senior High School offers four tracks: Academic; Technical-Vocational-Livelihood; Sports; and Arts and Design.

Three (3) strands make up the Academic track: Business, Accountancy Management (BAM); Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS); and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Four (4) strands make up the Technical-Vocational-Livelihood: Agricultural-Fishery Arts (AFA); Home Economics (HE); Industrial Arts (IA); and Information and Communications Technology (ICT). 

Students in grade 12 who successfully complete Technical-Vocational-Livelihood are eligible to acquire a National Certificate II (NC II), for which the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority  (TESDA) will provide competency-based assessment.

World teachers Day Celebration 2022: "THANK YOU, MA'AM & SIR"

Under Proclamation No. 242, s. 2011, The United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated 05 of October  as World Teachers' Day, which is a day to celebrate the central role that teachers play in guiding the children, youth and adults through the life-long learning process.  (Official Gazette, 2011). 

"The transformation of education begins with teachers: a lifetime learning journey" is the theme for this year. It's been stated, for many generations, that education has the power to reshape a person's life, with the teacher acting as the agent of transformation. Teachers have the ability to have an impact on their students through the way they educate and interact with them. 

When a teacher becomes a classroom adviser, additional administrative duties are required. This calls for patience when interacting with students and parents, a willingness to put other priorities on hold in order to complete these tasks, and, most importantly, presence of mind, especially when handling emergencies and other unfavorable events on school property. Teaching is a noble profession, no doubt.  

Even if it sounds cliche, teachers have paved the way for every other profession. If there aren't any daring teachers to lead young students into these professions, there won't be any physicians, engineers, accountants, architects, etc.

It is true that we will always remember that one teacher who had a profound impact on us and made us feel significant and respected. And it works both ways, when former graduate and working students return to that teacher and express gratitude, teachers are always touched.

In the Philippines, as part of a month-long commemoration of World Teachers Day, a division memo was disseminated, recommending that a school-based celebration be held on September 30, 2022. On this day, teachers are encouraged to use distance learning by assigning asynchronous activities to their respective classes to comply on the same day.

Students are incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in transformational learning, and the best thing they can do now that we are honoring World Teachers' Day is to begin by saying "Thank you" to their teachers.

THANK YOU, MA'AM & SIR! HAPPY WORLD TEACHERS DAY! 

10 Suggested conducts for students on their first day of school

1.   Obtain a good night sleep on the night before the class. You may become easily anxious and irritable at school if you don't get enough sleep. Negativity is not something we want to deal with on the first day of class.

 

2.   Make sure that everything you need for your studies is organized in your backpack, including your wallet, notebook, ballpen, facemask and other important study tools.

 

3.   As you enter the school premises, do not forget to greet the teachers or other non-teaching staff that you see. A wonderful way to start the year is by beginning each day with an optimistic mindset.

 

4.   Show your classmates some smiles. Good friendships begin with a smile. Being close to your peers will ensure that you always have each other's backs, which might help you overcome your shyness.

 

5.   Pay close attention while your teachers speak. It's a positive sign of your commitment to your studies and to obeying your teachers' orders when you follow through on the instructions.

 

6.   Make a clear introduction. Make sure that you are understood by your teachers and classmates in the manner in which you desire to be perceived. Don't make arrogant claims about yourself. It's crucial to stay true to oneself. 

 

7.   Respect the rules set forth by the school, especially those pertaining to everyone's health and safety. Remember that the pandemic is still ongoing. We must adhere to rules established by the Department of Health.

 

8.   Remember to list the assignments and other requirements for the following day. It is always preferable to take the initiative than spending time asking your classmates about it. 

 

9.   Do not leave any trash behind, instead bring your trash with you when you go home. The school ought to be a spot where cleanliness is always upheld as an ideal.

 

10.  Safety is our top priority both at school and at home, so be cautious when you leave the building, be on the lookout for anybody who may be lurking and following you. It is better to be safe than sorry. 

 

One of life's most incredible experiences is being a student. We are fortunate to be able to attend school with our peers as other people never get the chance to experience it. So, make the most of every opportunity while also maintaining your obligations as a student.

Back-to-school shopping checklist: Ideas for parents

As mandated by DepEd Order No. 34, S. 2022, commonly known as School Calendar and Activities for the School Year 2022–2023, classes will formally begin on August 22, 2023.

For the most part,  students are eager to resume their traditional face-to-face education. Having spent so much time at home studying for online classes, what could possibly be more exciting than getting ready for the very first day of in-person schooling? Everyone must be pumped and thrilled for sure.

Children are not the only ones anticipating the start of classes. Parents are also feeling under pressure to start planning for their children's first day of school. Buying school supplies is one of the things to take into account as classes get closer.

 

To help the parents with this first day of school endeavor, I have compiled a prepared list of things or items to buy  that will serve as a guide:

1.     A notebook is essential for kids to keep notes in and to jot down ideas to assist them remember the information and lessons they learned.

 

One notebook for each subject: English, Filipino, Science, Mathematics, Araling Panlipunan, Technology & Livelihood Education (TLE), Edukasyon sa Pagpapakatao (ESP), and Music, Arts, Physical Education & Health (MAPEH).

Also, 1 notebook for assignments or possibly a journal notebook;

2.     Intermediate writing pad for exams and other writing activities;

 

3.     Ballpen, a tool for writing;

 

4.     To foster students' creativity, they must have access to basic art supplies like crayons, bond paper, glue or paste, ruler, pencil, eraser, sharpener, scissors, bond paper, etc.;

 

5.     Feeding our kids healthy foods is a symbol of love, thus a functional lunch box and water bottle set is essential to keep our kids' food warm and safe;

 

6.     A backpack is typically preferred for students to make them carry their things comfortably, as it is more spacious and the weight is uniformly distributed across both shoulders;

 

7.     A comfy and decent pair of shoes and some socks are what our students truly needed to complete their outfit each day;

 

8.     In the Philippines, the rainy season lasts from June to November, thus we need to consider buying our kids umbrellas to protect them from illnesses brought on by getting wet from the rain.

 

Given that they will spend longer time in school, children's comfort is important. Parents should prioritize giving their kids the resources they need to maximize their learning experiences. 

Uniform is not required in public schools according to DepEd (DepEd Order No. 065, s. 2010)

I started getting a lot of messages from the parents as the first day of classes drew near, asking me if they could still allow their kids to wear school uniforms despite the official statement of DepEd, of not requiring students to wear school uniform.  According to DepEd, this is being done to relieve Filipino families of additional expenses.

In my opinion, wearing a school uniform is advantageous, not just for the students but also for the parents. 

 

First of all, it would spare them the burden of having to find things to wear every day. Stressing over the choice of clothing for the day shouldn’t be the most important issue to deal with before going to school. Thus, the stress of having to select outfits to wear would be avoided.

 

Secondly, like a safety net, wearing a uniform provides protection. Based on student’s attire, school staff could quickly determine whether or not they were a legitimate student. This would assist in preventing any undesirable occurrences involving student exploitation, coercion, and the like.

 

Thirdly, the wearing of a uniform denotes belonging, and it is comforting to feel that you are a part of the community. The truth is that not every student has the financial means to afford a substantial collection of proper clothing. As they are surrounded by their peers or classmates who have the option of wearing various outfits, this will have an impact on their feeling of belongingness. 

 

Fourthly, putting on a uniform is akin to wearing your confidence. There is always that look of confidence and expression of assurance on the faces of students who are dressed in uniform, as they march through the streets to get to school. They shouldn't have to lose that.

 

Last but not least, encouraging uniform adherence among students is a sign of instilling or enforcing discipline. You have an obligation to behave appropriately when you wear clothing that represents your social status. With that in mind, the kids will be more conscious of their accountability for every action they take.

 

There is no question that the government is doing everything in its power to assist Filipino families and lessen the burden of their struggle with their expenses. Every decision we make has both advantages and disadvantages and at the end of the day, it is still up to the parents to decide whether or not they will let their children wear a different clothing or a uniform to school. 

Success Requires Integrity & is Complemented with Humility

I ought to believe that success is about getting awards, obtaining admission to prestigious universities, getting higher positions and achieving further advancement within well-paying employment. I've come to know that it's not just about that though as I'm getting older. Success, in my perspective, is gaining a deeper understanding of the world as well as of the people and your worth as a person.

People frequently have a tendency to stomp on other people, even their own friends, in order to ascend to a higher degree of position. Or, when they believe they are at the lowest level, they occasionally exhibit a crab mentality and try to bring someone else down with them, just simply not wanting to see other people succeed.

But is it worth it? These tangible possessions that we purchased with the cash from a high-paying work inevitably deteriorate and perish as time goes on. We must remember that the way we treat others will be remembered more than how much money we made or what level of education we attained.

I'm not advocating for people to give up trying to improve their education or get better employment. I only want people to keep in mind that, while working toward our goals and desires in life, we must never lose sight of the importance of humility and treating everyone fairly and with respect. Success therefore requires integrity and is complemented with humility.