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Lesson 13 of 15

The big picture

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4 min

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Tissues in Action — eleven ideas on one screen
IdeaIn short
A tissueA group of cells, usually similar, one job. Cell, tissue, organ, organ system
EpithelialCovers and lines. Shape fits the job
ConnectiveBlood, bone, cartilage, tendon, ligament. The matrix decides
MuscleSkeletal is voluntary. Smooth and cardiac are not
NervousNeurons. Dendrites receive. The axon carries
MeristemApical lengthens. Lateral widens. Intercalary lets grass regrow
Xylem and phloemXylem: water up. Phloem: food from leaves
JointsBall and socket, hinge, pivot, fixed
Plant skinThe epidermis is the outer skin of a plant. Its stomata let gases and water vapour pass.
Supporting tissuesParenchyma has thin walls and stores food. Collenchyma has thick corners and bends. Sclerenchyma has thick lignin walls and is hard.
BloodRed cells carry oxygen. White cells fight germs. Platelets help blood clot. Plasma carries food and hormones.

Tissues divide the jobs of a body between them. Muscle and bone work together, and nerves tell muscles when to work.

Now open Chapter 3, Tissues in Action. You met most of its tissues here first.