Tendons and Cartilage: Body's Helpers
Learning about the amazing parts that help our bodies move and stay strong
What Are Tendons?
Strong, rope-like tissues in our body Connect muscles to bones Help us move our arms, legs, and fingers Made of tough fibers called collagen
What Is Cartilage?
Smooth, rubbery tissue Acts like a cushion between bones Helps bones glide smoothly Found in joints, nose, and ears
Tendons vs. Cartilage
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Famous Tendons in Your Body
Achilles tendon - connects calf muscle to heel bone Bicep tendon - helps bend your arm Hamstring tendons - help bend your knee Patellar tendon - helps straighten your leg
Important Cartilage Locations
Knee cartilage - cushions your knee joint Ear cartilage - gives shape to your ears Nose cartilage - shapes your nose Rib cartilage - connects ribs to breastbone
Body Movement Challenge
Stand up and point to your Achilles tendon Bend your arm and feel your bicep tendon work Touch your nose and ears to feel cartilage Gently bend your knees and think about the cartilage cushioning
Think and Discuss
What would happen if we didn't have tendons? Why do you think cartilage is smooth and slippery? Which tendon helps you walk and run? Where can you feel cartilage on your face?
Question Answers
Without tendons, muscles couldn't move our bones Cartilage is smooth so bones can glide without rubbing The Achilles tendon helps you walk and run You can feel cartilage in your nose and ears
Remember This!
Tendons and cartilage work together to keep our bodies moving smoothly and safely every single day!