Neuron parts and the synapse
Mon, Mar 8, 2027 · Week 8 · Human Anatomy & Physiology (Human Body Systems)
Today's goal: Label the parts of a neuron and explain how a signal crosses a synapse.
This is a model of the work you should turn in today. Use it to check your own: match the structure and the level of detail, do not copy it. Your data and wording should be your own.
Labeled neuron (signal travels left to right):
- Dendrites: receive incoming signals.
- Cell body (soma): integrates the signals.
- Axon: conducts the action potential away from the cell body.
- Myelin sheath: insulates the axon and speeds conduction.
- Axon terminal: releases neurotransmitter.
Signal-direction arrow: dendrites to cell body to axon to axon terminal.
Synapse explanation (two sentences): When the electrical signal reaches the axon terminal, it triggers the release of neurotransmitter molecules into the synaptic cleft, the tiny gap between the two neurons. The neurotransmitter crosses the gap and binds to receptors on the next neuron's membrane, which converts the chemical message back into an electrical signal in that cell.
This model shows the level of evidence and organization needed to complete: A labeled diagram of a neuron showing all five parts with a signal-direction arrow, plus a two-sentence explanation of how a signal crosses the synapse from one neuron to the next.
- Date and label the entry.
- Record the procedure, observation, or design decision clearly.
- End with what the evidence means and the next step.
Keep the structure. Replace the question, facts, measurements, and evidence. Then recheck units, vocabulary, and whether the conclusion goes beyond the evidence.
Also due today: Submit a photo of your dated notebook page.
Turn in: Labeled neuron diagram and synapse explanation
Go to Schoology to turn this in.
Submit one PDF. Put your first and last name in the document header. Name the file: FirstName LastName - Assignment Title - YYYY-MM-DD.pdf.
Open Schoology PDF upload helpIf you cannot get in, see Mr. Mendoza. Do not skip the work.
Claim ceiling: Today's evidence supports a classroom claim about today's lesson. It cannot prove causation, diagnose a real patient, or justify action outside this room.
One exam-style question that uses exactly what you practiced today. Try it before you reveal the answer, then read why each choice is right or wrong.
Tap an answer to see the full explanation. Nothing is recorded or graded.
It builds this reusable test skill: Identifying neuron parts and the direction a nerve signal travels.
- Name the concept or data pattern being tested.
- Cross out choices that violate that rule or the evidence.
- Justify the best remaining choice before checking the answer.