Blood and Blood Vessels

By the end of this unit, students will be able to:

1. understand the functions of blood and its components (plasma, red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets) in the circulatory system;
2. understand the functions of blood in transportation, protection, and regulation (e.g., carrying oxygen, fighting infections, clotting);
3. understand the vital role of blood in maintaining homeostasis and supporting overall body functions;
4. describe the pathway of blood flow through the circulatory system, starting from the heart, through the arteries, capillaries, and veins, and back to the heart.