Neural Control of Walking and Running

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Topic

Resource Type

Level

High School — AP/IBCollege
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12 Users
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Description

This interactive module explores the different gaits employed by animals and how the nervous system is able to switch between gaits.

Walking and running are complex activities that involve signaling among the brain, spinal cord, and leg muscles. This Click & Learn explores how the nervous system generates different gaits in humans, horses, and other animals. These concepts have applications in both medicine and robotics.

Student Learning Targets

  • Describe key differences between different gaits, such as walking and running.
  • Explain the role of the nervous system and neural circuits in generating different gaits.

Estimated Time

One 50-minute class period.

Key Terms

brain, horse, interneuron, locomotion, neural circuit, robot, spinal cord, synapse

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Version History

Date Published

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS1.A

AP Biology (2019)

ENE-2.G, ENE-3.D, IST-5.A

IB Biology (2016)

11.2, A.1

Vision and Change (2009)

CC3

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