A description of the respiratory system and why we breath faster when we exercise. Written and created by a Year 5 student.

1. Why do we breathe faster when we run?

2. The body
• We breathe faster
when we exercise to
increase the amount of
oxygen available to
our bodies.

3. About the cells
• Your body is made up of tiny
cells, each of which has a
•
special job that keeps you
alive. Every cell in your body
needs a special gas called
oxygen, that allows the cell
to get energy from the food
you eat. Oxygen in the air is
brought into your lungs.
That's when your blood picks
it up and brings it to your
cells.

4. Gases
• Another gas, called carbon dioxide is a waste
product of your cells. It is very dangerous if it builds
up in your body. Your blood carries the carbon
•
dioxide from your cells to your lungs, to let you
breathe out all the bad gas!
• When we exercise, our cells are working harder,
and they need more oxygen. They also produce
more carbon dioxide. That's why you breathe faster
when you exercise!

5. Blood, Oxygen and Heart Beats
• You have probably
noticed that when
you're exercising, your
heart beats more
quickly. That's so that
the blood can carry
oxygen to your cells
faster!
• Your heart and lungs
work together to make
sure every cell in your
body gets enough
oxygen

6. Thank – you for listening
By Olivia Cowie