Learn About 1

Living and Staying Healthy Book 1

Living and Staying Healthy

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Fraydel Sharf Senior Editor Content Director

Francine Foote

5th and 6th Grade Instructor

M.A. in Instruction and Curriculum

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Writers

Francine Foote

5th and 6th Grade Instructor

M.A. in Instruction and Curriculum

Anastasia Duranne

Curriculum Writer

M.A. in Teaching K-8

Review Team

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Elementary Principal

Beth Hillel of Krasna

Layout and Design

Akiva Leitner

Project Manager

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Miriam Shulamis Eisemann

Content writer and editor

Fraydel Sharf

Senior Editor

Content Director

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Learn About | Living and Staying Healthy

ISBN 978-1-955773-20-1

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Elementary Principal

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Words to know ?

Glasses and Contact Lenses

Howis your eyesight? Chances are that even if you don’t wear glasses, someone in your family or class does.

How does someone know if they need glasses? Children may complain that they can’t see the blackboard in school or that things seem blurry to them. Sometimes people get frequent headaches. Frequent means something that happens often. A school nurse or an eye doctor may check their eyes and find that the child frequent –happening often focusing –concentrating on; paying attention to converts – changes professionals –specially trained people provide – give prefer - would rather

doesn’t see well. Other signs of needing glasses can be having watery eyes, rubbing your eyes frequently, needing to hold your book or paper close to you, or more.

People who need glasses can be either nearsighted or farsighted. Being nearsighted means you can see things close to you better than things that are far away. The medical word for being nearsighted is myopia. Shortsighted people have eyeballs that are too long. Being farsighted is called having hyperopia.

Farsighted people have eyeballs that are too short. Farsighted people can see better at a distance. They have trouble focusing and concentrating on things too close to them, which may cause headaches after looking at them for too long. Most people become farsighted when they get older because a part of their eye called the lens becomes a little stiff and doesn’t work correctly anymore.

How Do Glasses Help?

To understand how glasses work, we first have to learn a little about how we see. The sclera (SKLAIR-uh) is the white material covering most of the eyeball. The cornea

Did you know ?

Glasses date back to about 1284 CE. At that time, they were called reading stones.

Did you know ?

Babies have blurry vision until they are four months old. They also don’t see colors fully until then.

(KOR-nee-uh) is made of clear tissue. It helps the eye focus as light comes through it. Behind the cornea are the iris (EYE-riss), the colored part of the eye, and the pupil, the black circle in the center of the iris. The pupil allows light into the eye, and the iris controls how much light the pupil lets in. After the light enters, it hits the lens, which is clear and colorless. The lens focuses the light rays on the retina (RET-i-nuh) at the very back of the eyeball. The retina, a very thin layer of tissue, changes the light it receives into signals that the brain converts into vision. If light falls on the wrong part of the eye, your sight will be blurry or fuzzy. Glasses help people see more clearly by helping the eyeball focus light on the correct part of the retina.

Going to the Eye Doctor

There are three different types of specially trained people, called professionals, who can provide, or give, eye care. Ophthalmologists are eye doctors who have gone to college and had many years of training. They can treat eye diseases, prescribe medications, perform surgery, and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. Optometrists can also perform eye exams, screen for eye problems, prescribe medications, and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, but they are not medical doctors like ophthalmologists are. They don’t train for as many years as ophthalmologists do. Opticians

are not eye doctors and cannot give eye exams. They are trained to fit glasses or contact lenses but cannot treat eye diseases or write prescriptions. Opticians may have only one or two years of training.

Contact Lenses

Some people with vision problems wear contact lenses instead of glasses. Contact lenses are made of different plastic materials. They sit on the surface of the eye and can correct the same vision problems as regular glasses. Some people would rather wear contact lenses because they feel they look better without glasses. Others like them because they don’t interfere when they play or do other activities. And some people find they can see better with contacts than with glasses. There is no right or wrong way when it comes to glasses and contact lenses. Each person must decide the best and most comfortable way to improve their vision.

How to put contact lenses

Did you know ?

About 45 million people in the United States wear contact lenses.

Directions

CHAPTER

1. What are some ways people know they need glasses?

a. Their vision is blurry or unclear.

b. They have watery eyes.

c. They have frequent headaches.

d. All of the above

2. Which of the following is the medical term for being nearsighted?

a. Amblyopia

b. Triopia

c. Myopia

d. Hyperopia

3. In which way are optometrists different from ophthalmologists?

a. They cannot write prescriptions

b. They are not medical doctors

c. They cannot perform eye exams

d. All of the above

4. Which of the following can an optician do?

a. Fit glasses or contact lenses

b. Perform eye exams

c. Prescribe medication

d. All of the above

5. Why do some people prefer to wear contact lenses instead of glasses?

a. They’re cheaper

b. They don’t break as often

c. They don’t interfere with their activities

d. They come in more colors

Describe how you or someone you know realized they needed glasses.

Trivia Corner

Eyes are made up of over 2 working parts.

How Broken Bones Heal

Words to know ? Broken bones happen quite often in children. They may occur during a fall on the playground or while riding their bike. The bone may fracture or break into small pieces or just crack. When a bone breaks, messages from the body immediately tell the bone to start healing.

fracture - a break in a bone

hematoma - a mass of clotted blood that forms after a fracture

callus - a soft bone that replaces the hematoma

physical therapist - a specialist who helps patients improve movement, gain strength, and reduce pain after an injury

diabetes - a disease in which the blood sugar gets too high

As soon as a bone breaks, a hematoma is formed. What is a hematoma? A hematoma is a collection of

clotted blood that begins to connect the ends of the broken bone. Sometimes you can see the hematoma forming underneath the skin. It may look bruised and be a different color. After about a week, a callus is formed around the fracture. A callus is a type of bone that is soft at first but hardens over time. This is not visible to the human eye. The callus replaces the hematoma. New bone forms over the next couple of weeks and replaces the callus. Over time, the new bone continues to form and reshape itself. Within a couple of months, the bone fracture heals completely.

Bones need to be held in place to heal properly. Doctors set the bone correctly and usually place a cast or splint around the injured body part. Caring for your cast is very important. You don’t want to get it wet if it is a hard cast. This can be challenging when you have to bathe. That is why doctors suggest covering the cast in a special plastic bag to prevent any damage to the cast from water. You also do not want to alter or change the cast in any way once it has been fitted. You probably will not be able to

Broken bones may take longer to heal in people who have anemia, a blood disorder in which there is an inadequate number of red blood cells.

Did you know ?

Did you know

Eating a healthy diet rich in vitamin D can help broken bones heal faster because it helps the blood take in and use calcium and build up the minerals in the bones.

?

participate in physical activities for a while. The bone typically takes a few months to heal fully, even though the healing process begins immediately.

Once the cast is removed, the muscles surrounding the injury may be weak or stiff. You may not be able to return to regular exercise or gym class at school for a little while longer. Your bones may still need time to get stronger. Sometimes, once the cast is removed, you may need to see a physical therapist. A physical therapist is a trained professional who helps with stretching and strengthening the injured area so you can improve your movement. In no time, you will be back to your active self.

The best way to heal from any broken bone is to practice a set of guidelines. Eat a healthy diet that includes calcium and vitamin D. These vitamins help make healing bones stronger. Take good care of your cast and splint. Follow what the doctor tells you to do. Do not get the cast wet if it is meant to stay dry. Lastly, make sure you rest and perform safe exercises recommended by your doctor.

Fracture repair

Sometimes, bones do not heal so well. This could be because of a severe break. If a person has other medical conditions, it may be harder for their bones to heal. If someone has diabetes, a disease in which there is too much sugar in the blood, bones may not heal as easily. Also, if someone lacks certain vitamins in their body, their bones may struggle to heal. But all in all, a broken bone is a common and treatable injury. Once the person heals, they will be back to their old activities in no time.

Did you know ?

Hematoma formation

Hematoma

Internal callus

External callus

New blood vessels

Bony callus of spongy bone

Healed fracture

Spongy bone trabeculae

Fibrocartilaginous callus formation

Bony callus formation

Bone remodeling

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. Which of the following forms right away around the broken bone?

a. Cast

b. Hematoma

c. Callus

d. Nothing

2. How would you describe the callus when it first forms around the break?

a. Soft

b. Rough

c. Broken

d. None of the above

3. How long does it typically take for a broken bone to heal completely?

a. A year

b. A week

c. A few days

d. A few months

4. What does a physical therapist help you do once your cast is removed?

a. Strengthen your muscles

b. Increase your movement

c. Stretch your body

d. All of the above

5. Sometimes, bones do not heal quickly because

a. The bone break is severe

b. You ate too much food

c. You drank a lot of water

d. You kept your cast clean

Pretend you were going on a vacation to an island and you had just broken your arm. You went to the doctor and received a hard cast. Write about how you would care for your broken arm while vacationing.

X-ray machines are used to determine if a bone is fractured. The first X-ray machine was invented in .

Trivia Corner

Symptoms of Strep Throat

Strep Throat

Words to know ?

confirms – proves; verifies bacteria – germs prevent – keep from happening indicate – show result – answer accurate – right; correct symptoms – signs; indications

Youwake up in the morning with a sore throat and maybe a slight fever. A quick trip to the doctor confirms it—you have strep throat. To confirm something means to say that it is right.

Not all sore throats are strep throats. Viruses or bacteria can cause sore throats, sometimes called germs. There are several differences

Swollen uvula

Glossopalatine arch

Pharyngopalatine arch

Uvula

Palatine tonsil

Tongue

Red swollen tonsils

Whitish spots

Throat redness

Gray furry tongue

Strep throat is caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcus

between viruses and bacteria, but the most commonly known difference is that bacteria can be killed with medicines called antibiotics while viruses usually cannot. That means that if bacteria cause your sore throat, you can take antibiotics and should start feeling better soon. But if a virus causes your sore throat, there’s not much you can do about it. You just have to wait it out until it clears up on its own.

Strep throat is caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes or group A streptococcus. That means you can take an antibiotic; before you know it, you’ll feel as good as new. In truth, strep throat usually goes away on its own, even without treating it with antibiotics. But it’s best to

Bacteria on culture plate. If bacteria causes your sore throat, you can take antibiotics and should start feeling better soon

Did you know ?

Only 30 percent of sore throats in children are caused by group A streptococcus.

Red swollen tonsils

Throat redness

Viral

Did you know ?

Your hands spread more germs when they are damp than when they are dry. That’s why it’s important not only to wash your hands well with soap but also to dry them well afterward.

take medicine to prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body where it can do damage. To prevent something means to keep it from happening.

Sometimes, doctors can tell by looking in their patient’s throat if they have strep. Some things that indicate, or show, strep throat are a very red throat or red patches in the mouth. Sometimes the tonsils or tongue have a white coating. But doctors usually want to do a throat culture to confirm if the person has strep or if it’s just a virus. You are probably familiar with how a throat culture is taken. The doctor or a nurse rubs the back of the mouth with something that looks like a long Q-tip, called a swab. Next, the doctor or nurse will put the swab and some chemicals in a tube, dip in a test strip, and wait a few minutes. Depending on what they see on the test strip, they will know whether you have strep throat or not. If the answer, called the result, is positive, it means that you have strep. A negative result means that you do not. Sometimes, if the test is negative, the doctor will want

Use soap Rub each wrist Rub palm to palm with fingers Rince your hands Rub tips of fingers Dry your hands

to perform an additional test to be sure the result is accurate, meaning correct. This test takes overnight, so you will not know the result until the following day.

Symptoms of Strep Throat

As we mentioned before, some signs, or symptoms, of strep throat are a very sore throat, fever, and a white coating on the tonsils or tongue. A cough is not usually one of the symptoms, but many people have an upset stomach or sore legs when they have strep throat.

Another thing that often comes along with strep throat is swollen glands. You or someone else can tell if you have swollen glands by pushing on the front part of your neck. That is where your lymph nodes, or glands, are. If they feel swollen and sore to the touch, that can be a sign of strep throat.

How Do You Catch Strep?

Usually, people catch strep throat from someone else who has it. It could be from cough or sneeze droplets that traveled from the sick person. Sometimes you can catch strep by touching a surface that the sick person touched, such as a doorknob, pen, faucet, or something else. Then, if you touch your mouth or face after touching the object, the germs can get into your body and make you sick. Although you can get sick with strep any time of year, it is more common in the winter and early spring.

Did you know ?

Antibiotics were invented in 1928 by Alexander Fleming, a London bacteriologist (someone who studies bacteria).

Directions

1. What is the most known difference between viruses and bacterial infections?

a. Viruses are more common in the summer, and bacteria are more common in the winter.

b. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, but viruses usually can’t.

c. Viruses spread from person to person, but bacterial infections don’t.

d. People don’t feel as sick when they have viruses as they do when they have bacterial infections.

2. Which of these is not a symptom of strep throat?

a. A very sore throat

b. A fever

c. Swollen glands

d. A strong cough

3. How do doctors test for strep throat?

a. They shine a strong light down their patient’s throat.

b. They call in the nurse and ask what she thinks.

c. They perform a throat culture.

d. They cut out a small piece of the patient’s throat and send it away to be tested.

4. How do people usually get sick with strep throat?

a. From going outside without a coat in the winter.

b. From exercising too much.

c. From not getting enough sleep.

d. From catching germs that spread from someone else who has strep.

5. Why is it a good idea to take medicine even if strep usually goes away by itself?

a. The drugstores need the business.

b. The more medicine you take, the better it is for you.

c. To prevent the infection from spreading to other parts of the body where it can do damage.

d. To keep you from getting strep again in the future.

What do you think our lives would be like if antibiotics hadn’t been invented? How would illnesses be treated?

Trivia Corner

is the most commonly used antibiotic.

Did you know ?

Everyone has plaque, even if you can't see it.

What is a Cavity?

Goingto the dentist is a normal part of growing up. Children start visiting the dentist as early as three years old so they can learn and practice good dental hygiene habits. But once you sit down in the dental chair, no one wants to hear the dreaded phrase, “You have a cavity.” A cavity is a hole in your tooth where food and bacteria get trapped. The hole can get bigger over time if not treated by the dentist. Cavities are also called dental caries (KARE-eez). So it is important to visit the dentist regularly to check for cavities.

Tooth Anathomy

How Are Cavities Formed?

Cavities form because plaque forms around your teeth. Plaque is a sticky, slimy substance that is full of germs. It stays on your teeth and the bacteria in your mouth starts to form acids. These acids cause a decay in the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth. Once the enamel is worn away, the bacteria and acid can reach the next layer of your teeth, called dentin. This layer is softer than enamel and less resistant to acid. Dentin has tiny tubes that directly communicate with the nerve of the tooth, causing sensitivity.

Ouch! I Have a Toothache!

If you have ever had a toothache, that is because acid ate through the enamel, and decay entered deep into the

Did you know ?

Tooth decay affects 50 percent of all children ages 12 -15.

Words to know ?

cavity - hole

caries - dental cavities

decay - break down filling - material used to treat a cavity in a tooth

plaque - a sticky substance that forms on the teeth made from leftover food particles and saliva that mix in the mouth enamel - outermost layer of the tooth

dentin - the layer below the enamel that is typically softer and less resistant to acids

X-rays - special pictures of the inside of the body

anesthetic -

numbing medication neutralizescounteracts

Dentin

Pulp Cavity

Gums

Root Canal Bone Cement

Nerve and Blood vesseles

Crown

Neck Root

Did you know ?

There is no way to cure a cavity once it eats past the tooth enamel. The dentist must remove the damaged area and put in a filling.

CHAPTER 4 | What Is a Cavity?

The stages of tooth decay

tooth where there are nerve endings. This is why there is pain. Using an X-ray machine, a device used to see inside the body, a dentist can confirm the cavity. He can remove the damaged parts of the tooth using a special drill. He will then probe or test the area with his metal instruments to make sure all of the decay is removed. Then the dentist will begin to fill the missing piece of the tooth with filling. The filling is a material that is made to look like tooth and is shaped to fit into the spot where the decay once was. This may hurt a little, so dentists will give an anesthetic, which is a numbing medicine usually applied around the problem tooth and surrounding gums.

Once the filling is complete, the dentist will polish it.

Healthy tooth with plaque Decay in enamel Decay in dentin Decay in pulp

How Can Cavities Be Prevented?

Once cavities form, it is hard to stop them without treatment from the dentist. We can try to prevent them by practicing proper dental hygiene. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly are the best preventative practices, especially at nighttime. Use circular motions while brushing. Don’t forget to lightly brush your tongue, too. Limit your sugar intake from soda or juice. Drink water. Water helps produce saliva. The saliva neutralizes, or counteracts, the acids in your mouth and helps to wash away food from your teeth. And, don’t forget to visit your dentist twice a year for a cleaning!

Did you know ?

Teeth are as unique as fingerprints! Even identical twins have different dental patterns.

Directions THINK ABOUT 28

CHAPTER

4 | What Is a Cavity?

1. What is a cavity?

a. A sign of tooth decay

b. A burn on your skin

c. A cut in your mouth

d. A irregular bruise on your arm

2. What is the outermost layer of tooth called?

a. Resin

b. Enamel

c. Decay

d. Filling

3. When a dentist fills a cavity, they may give the patient to help with the pain.

a. water

b. fluoride

c. anesthetic

d. None of the above

4. How often should you floss your teeth?

a. Once a month

b. Once a week

c. Once a day

d. Never

5. Which one of these items should you AVOID so you don’t get cavities?

a. Apple

b. Carrots

c. Soda

d. Water

Write a paragraph about how to prevent cavities. Provide at least three ways to stop cavities from developing.

In a lifetime, the average American spends approximately total days just brushing their teeth.

Trivia Corner

Poison Ivy

Words to know ?

Whenwe say someone has poison ivy, we usually mean the itchy rash people get when they touch a poison ivy plant. This rash is a reaction to a plant oil called urushiol. A reaction is a result of something happening. The rash is contact dermatitis, a skin inflammation or swelling from touching something. You can also develop a rash from touching other things with plant oil on them, such as clothing, gardening tools or a pet’s fur. You can also spread the rash from one part of your body to another by touching it with your fingers and then touching a different part of yourself. It doesn’t take much urushiol to cause a poison ivy rash. An amount less than a grain of salt is enough to cause a reaction. How bad the rash is depends on how much urushiol gets on your skin.

What Are the Symptoms of Poison Ivy?

The most common symptoms, or signs, of a poison ivy rash are skin redness, itching, swelling and blisters.

Poison ivy often appears as a straight line on your skin from where the plant brushed against it. But, the rash could be more spread out if you got poison ivy from touching something else, such as a pet or piece of clothing with urushiol.

How Long Does Poison Ivy Last?

The rash usually starts 12 to 48 hours after coming exposure to, meaning coming in contact with, the urushiol. It lasts about two to three weeks. Not everyone who touches urushiol gets a poison ivy rash. Some people are more sensitive to the oil than others, which means they are more likely to get a reaction.

How is Poison Ivy Treated?

If you know that you’ve touched a poison ivy plant, wash your skin right away. Applying, or rubbing on, isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol can also help strip away the oil from the skin or any other object with the oil on it.

Mild, or not very bad, cases of poison ivy can be treated with non-prescription anti-itch creams or lotions. Applying

Did you know ?

Poison ivy’s favorite place to grow is where there is just a little bit of shade, such as along forest edges, especially along the edges of bike paths.

Did you know ?

The urushiol in a poison ivy plant remains active for up to five years after the plant has died.

Symptoms of Poison ivy

cool water or taking an oatmeal bath might also soothe the itchiness. If the rash is more widespread, you might need a doctor’s prescription to help treat it.

Although the rash is very itchy, try not to scratch it. Scratching makes it feel better at first, but it can make the skin break open and get infected.

Who Is Most Likely to Get Poison Ivy?

Some people are more likely to get poison ivy than others. These include gardeners, farmers, hikers, campers, roofers and forest workers. They spend more time outdoors and are more likely to touch a plant with urushiol.

Is Poison Ivy Contagious?

Poison ivy is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. The only way a person can catch it

Difficulty breathing, if you’ve inhaled the smoke from burning poison ivy

Redness, swelling, itching, blisters

from someone else is if they touch any part of their body or clothing that still has urushiol on it.

What Do Poison Ivy Plants Look Like?

Poison ivy plant leaves have three leaflets, small pointed leaves that grow off the same stem. Poison ivy plants grow as shrubs, which are small bushes, or vines. Their leaves are green in the summer, reddish in the spring, and yellow, orange, or red in the fall. The plants may also have white berries.

Other Rash-Causing Plants

Poison oak and poison sumac are two other plants whose oils can cause itchy rashes. Poison oak leaves also have three leaflets, but their tips are rounded. These plants also grow as shrubs and sometimes have yellow or white berries. Poison sumac leaves have clusters of seven to thirteen smooth leaflets that grow in pairs. They are small trees or tall shrubs with drooping bunches of green berries. There are also non-poisonous sumacs with upright, red berries, but these do not cause allergic reactions.

Did you know ?

Poison ivy shrubs grow to about three feet 11 inches tall, and its vines grow from 3.9 to 9.8 inches tall.

Poison Sumac

Poison Oak

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. What is the best way to avoid getting poison ivy?

a. Take medicine ahead of time.

b. Take hot baths every night.

c. Avoid touching plants.

d. Don’t own any pets.

2. Which of the following is not a symptom of a poison ivy rash?

a. Itchiness

b. Skin redness

c. Painful legs

d. Blisters

3. Which of the following people are most likely to get poison ivy?

a. Gardeners

b. Campers

c. Forest workers

d. All of the above

4. What are some ways to treat poison ivy?

a. With cool water or oatmeal baths

b. With warm water and lots of soap

c. By drinking lots of alcohol

d. By scratching wherever it itches

5. Which of the following describes how poison ivy plants look?

a. They have drooping bunches of green leaves.

b. Their leaves have seven to thirteen leaflets growing in pairs.

c. They grow as tall trees.

d. Their leaves have three pointed leaflets.

Did you or someone you know ever have poison ivy? How did you get it? What did it feel like, and how long did it last?

Contact dermatitis is responsible for about doctor visits yearly.

Trivia Corner

Words to know ?

event - chance

Ideally - preferably; the best way designatedchosen; picked devise - come up with; think up consider - think about collapsible - able to be folded smother - put out; extinguish

What to Do in a Fire

Noone likes to think about having a fire in their home. But, unfortunately, sometimes houses do catch on fire. That’s why it’s important to know what to do in such a situation. Being prepared ahead of time gives everyone a better chance of staying safe in a fire.

Having family fire drills makes it more likely that everyone in the family will know what to do in the

event of, meaning chance of, a real fire. Ideally, the drills should be held twice a year. Ideally means the best way to do something. Everyone in the family should know where and how to exit the house. There should also be a designated place, a place picked ahead of time, where everyone knows to gather once they are safely outside. Getting out and meeting outside in less than three minutes is a good goal.

Each family has to think of, or devise, a plan for exiting their home. A family living in a one-story house will have different plans than a family living in a tall apartment building. Some things to think about, or consider, are where the home’s exits are and what to do if one exit is blocked by fire or smoke. Is there a way to climb down from an upstairs window if the stairway is blocked? Some people keep collapsible, or folding, ladders in upstairs bedrooms to use if the stairway is blocked. Children should be taught how to unlock and open the windows and remove the screens.

Did you know ?

A typical house fire doubles in size every minute as long as the heat, oxygen, and fuel levels stay the same.

Did you know ?

Fires need fuel, oxygen, and heat to burn. Firefighters turn off a building’s electricity to remove the heat source.

In Case of a Fire

In a fire, the most important thing is to get out as quickly as possible. Do not stop to take anything along, no matter how valuable it is. Many people feel terrible leaving a beloved pet behind. But nothing is as important as human life. After the firefighters come, they can try to save the pet. Children should be told not to hide under a bed or in a closet, no matter how frightened they are. This will make it harder for the firefighters to find them.

If flames or smoke trap someone in a room, they should put blankets, sheets, or clothing along the bottom of the door. This will keep heat and smoke from coming into the room. Do not open the door if smoke is coming in under it or it feels very warm or hot to the touch. Put a towel or a piece of clothing over your mouth to keep from breathing in the smoke. If the door and doorknob do not feel warm, open the door slowly. If no heat or smoke comes in, try to escape, staying as low as possible. Heat rises, so try to stay below it, even if you have to crawl to get out.

Steps to Take If Someone Is on Fire

Someone can catch on fire even if their house is not on fire. They can be lighting the stove or a candle, and their clothing catches on fire. The first steps to take are stop, drop, and roll. Stop means don’t move. Moving can make the fire get bigger. Drop means the person should drop to the ground and try to lie down. They should also cover their face with their hands to protect it. Rolling on the ground can help put the fire out. If there is a rug or blanket nearby, they can wrap it around themselves to try to smother , or put out, the flames. Stop, drop, and roll should only be used if a person is actually on fire. If a fire alarm is sounding, warning of a fire in the house or building, the first thing to do is get out as quickly as possible.

Did you know ?

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. What is the best thing families can do to make it more likely everyone will know what to do in case of a fire?

a. Read lots of books about fire safety

b. Talk to people who have had house fires

c. Have routine fire drills

d. Ask firefighters for advice

2. What are some things to consider when planning how to exit a home?

a. Where the exits are located

b. How you can take out your valuable items

c. Where the closest fire hydrant is

d. How many children sleep in each bedroom

3. What is the most important thing to do in a fire?

a. Grab all your money on your way out

b. Get out as quickly as possible

c. Hide under a bed or in a closet

d. Make sure you have your toys with you

4. Why should you try to stay as low as possible when escaping a fire?

a. So none of the neighbors will notice you

b. So your clothes won’t smell of smoke

c. So you can find your toys faster

d. So you will be below the level of the heat

5. What are the first steps to take if someone catches on fire?

a. Roll

b. Stop

c. Drop

d. All of the above

Does your school have routine fire drills? What do you do when the fire alarm sounds? Why is it important to have fire drills?

A candle flame typically burns at around Degrees Fahrenheit.

Trivia Corner

reassuringcalming; soothing; comforting unpredictableuncertain; unsure; doubtful

How to Handle An Emergency

Emergencies

happen when we least expect them. Knowing what to do can help you act fast when needed.

If there is a medical emergency, immediate medical attention must be provided. You can help someone get help when there is a medical emergency. If you are in this situation, the first and most important step is to call for help while staying calm. Follow these steps when making an emergency 911 call.

• Stay calm by taking a deep breath. (Count to ten if that helps.)

• Make sure you are somewhere safe before calling 911.

• Use the phone to call 911.

• Tell the person answering the phone that there is an emergency. Tell the phone operator what type of first responder is needed. You may need the police, first-aid squad, ambulance, or fire department.

• Give your name and the exact address of where

the emergency is. It is important to be as clear as possible.

• Explain what the emergency is. Giving as many details as possible will help the first-responders.

• Listen carefully to the person answering the phone for their directions.

• DO NOT HANG UP THE PHONE. Wait until you are told to do so.

Your immediate reaction may be to help the injured person. You must stop and look at the situation first. It may not be safe for you or the injured person if you get involved. Wait in a safe place until help arrives.

Did you know ?

In a firstaid class, students may learn how to handle bleeding, burns, poisoning, shock, and breathing emergencies.

Did you know ?

An EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) is also a medical professional who rides in an ambulance. They can control bleeding, conduct CPR, or give oxygen, among other things. Their level of training is less than that of a paramedic.

If you believe the situation is safe, you can stay with the injured person. Try to stay calm and listen to the injured person. Talk to them and tell them you have called for help. Be reassuring by telling them you will stay by their side until help arrives. Try to remove the injured person’s fears by telling them help is coming. Do not attempt to move the person. That may cause them more harm. You never know if they have a neck injury or a broken bone. The best advice is to wait for help from the first responders.

Being Prepared for an Emergency

Being prepared will help you stay calm and in control. Below are some ways to prepare yourself in case of an emergency.

• Know your home address. Make sure your house number can be seen clearly on the outside of your house.

• Know how to call 911 for help, but never call just for fun.

• Learn first aid through local organizations like your local

hospital. Your school nurse or your pediatrician can teach you about first aid.

• Always seek help from adults if they are present.

You should never call 911 for information or to pay for a car ticket. Calling for the wrong reason or for non-emergencies could delay sending emergency services where they’re really needed. In many places, dialing 911 as a prank is a crime.

If you are ever unsure, it is best to call 911 and tell them you are unsure if this is an emergency. If it is an emergency, they will send the help needed. If it is not, they will guide you what to do.

Accidents can happen, and it is important to be prepared. Situations can be unpredictable or uncertain. If you stay calm and call 911, you will be able to get the injured person the help they need. You can make a difference.

Did you know ?

A highly trained medical professional who rides in an ambulance is called a paramedic. They can perform complex procedures while in the ambulance. They can also administer medication.

1. If you see a medical emergency, the first step in getting help is:

a. Moving the injured person

b. Staying calm and calling 911

c. Waiting for someone else to help

d. Leaving the situation and doing nothing

2. What important pieces of information should you give the 911 phone operator?

a. Your address

b. Your name

c. Description of the emergency

d. All of the above

3. After calling 911, when should you hang up the phone?

a. After you give your name

b. After you describe the emergency

c. When the 911 phone operator tells you to do so

d. None of the above

4. If it is safe to stay with the injured person, how should you behave?

a. Talk too much

b. Listen to them and try to keep them calm

c. Walk away

d. Move the person

5. Where can you learn first-aid?

a. Pediatrician

b. School nurse

c. Local hospital

d. All of the above

Write about a time in your life where you witnessed an emergency or were part of an emergency. Who did you call and how did you handle the situation? Would you have done anything differently if you knew what you know now? Can you relate what you have learned in this lesson to your personal experiences?

The first ambulance ever used in the United States was in in 1869. It was a horse-drawn ambulance filled with blankets, bandages, sponges, and splints.

Trivia Corner

Words to know ?

infection - germs that get inside the body

Eustachian tubesconnect the middle ear to the back of the throat. They keep the pressure from building up by letting air move in and out of the middle ear

otoscope - medical tool with a special flashlight that helps to see the eardrum

eardrum - a thin membrane between the outer and middle ear

antibiotic - medicine that helps get rid of bacteria or germs

What Is an Ear Infection?

Does anyone remember ever having an ear infection? You more than likely have had an infection of the middle ear even if you don’t remember it. Most children have at least one infection of the middle ear before the age of two. The symptoms of a middle ear infection are pain and pressure in the ear and a fever.

Types of Ear Infections

Ear infections are a common childhood medical concern. Infections are when germs get inside the body, in this instance, the ear. These germs can spread throughout the ear and cause fever and pain.

The ear is made up of three parts: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. When germs cause problems in the outer ear canal, it is called swimmer’s ear. People can get swimmer’s ear if water remains in the ear after swimming. The water creates a moist environment for bacteria to grow. Ear drops are usually the form of treatment for swimmer’s ear.

With middle ear infections, germs get behind the eardrum. This area can be filled with fluid-like pus that contains germs. The pus builds up and starts to cause pressure in the ear. This pressure can hurt, especially in young babies when they lie down. The chances of an eardrum bursting can increase with a middle ear infection.

How Did I Get the Ear Infection?

The Eustachian (you-stay-shee-un) tubes connect the middle ear to the back of your throat. You have Eustachian tubes on each side of your head. The tubes keep the pressure from building up by letting air move in and out of the middle ear. They also help drain fluid. In children under the age of three, the tubes are smaller and have a harder time keeping air and fluid out of the middle ear.

Did you know ?

Five out of six children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday.

The older the children become, the longer the Eustachian tubes get. The tubes tend to work better at keeping out germs. Children still get ear infections, just not as frequently. When children have allergies or even get colds, the Eustachian tubes often become blocked, and germs get inside the middle ear. The germs will grow inside the ear and cause an ear infection. Sometimes the tubes clear up on their own, but not always.

Ear infections are not contagious. You cannot catch an ear infection like you can catch a cold. But, if you do catch a cold, it could lead to an ear infection. Symptoms of ear infections are fever, ear pain, and even trouble hearing clearly. If you have any of these symptoms, let your parents know. Children may need to go to the doctor if their fever is over 102 degrees Fahrenheit, they have a stiff neck, feel dizzy, have severe pain, have external redness or swelling of the ear, or are a baby under six months. They may be given medicine to stop the infection.

How Can the Doctor Help?

If you go to the doctor to get relief for your ear infection, the doctor will use a medical tool with a special flashlight called an otoscope (OH-te-skope). The doctor will be able to see your eardrum. The eardrum is a thin membrane between the outer and middle ear. Doctors sometimes use a special kind of otoscope to blow a puff of air into your ear to see if your eardrum moves in

Did you know ?

If you hear your ears “pop” when you yawn, you are actually hearing the Eustachian tubes open.

a healthy manner. If it is infected, the eardrum may not move correctly. The doctor will also look for signs of an infection, like a red, bulging membrane or even a clear, yellow, or greenish drainage.

If you do have an ear infection, the doctor will suggest your parents give you some pain medication. The doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic (an-ty-by-AH-tik) to help get rid of the bacteria or germs. This type of medicine makes it hard for bacteria to grow and multiply. In a few days, you will most likely feel better and have less pain.

How Can I Prevent Ear Infections?

It would help if you stayed away from people who have colds. Wash your hands, especially after coming in from outdoors. Do not touch your face.

Swimmer’s Ear Eardrum infection in ear canal

Outer

Directions

1. What are symptoms of an ear infection?

a. Fever

b. Pain in the ear

c. Loss of hearing

d. All of the above

2. Swimmer’s ear can be treated with .

a. Ear drops

b. Water

c. Nothing

d. Ear wax

3. Eustachian tubes connect the middle ear to the back of your .

a. Outer ear

b. Throat

c. Ear lobe

d. None of the above

4. What tool helps doctors see your eardrum?

a. Stethoscope

b. Otoscope

c. Tongue depressor

d. Microscope

5. How can you prevent ear infections?

a. Wash your hands

b. Stay away from people who have colds

c. Do not touch your face

d. All of the above

Which do you think are more dangerous: outer ear infections like swimmer’s ear or middle ear infections? Give one reason why with an explanation.

The otoscope was invented in the . French inventor Jean-Pierre Bonnafont found that by directing a light source into the ear using a mirror, he could see into the ear canal better.

Trivia Corner

Lungs and Respiratory System

Everyone knows that in order to survive you must be able to breathe in air. But do you know what organ in the body is needed for breathing? It is the lungs, which are a part of the respiratory system. If you take a deep breath in, you will feel your lungs expand. The air we breathe in is called oxygen. Oxygen is necessary to help provide our body with energy. We breathe out carbon dioxide, which is the body’s waste product.

Breathe In!

Oxygen travels to the lungs by way of the mouth and nose. Once oxygen enters the body, it travels down the trachea (TRAY-kee-uh) or windpipe. The trachea is a tubelike structure within the neck and upper chest. It transports air to and from the lungs.

At the bottom of the trachea are two large tubes called the main stem bronchi (BRONG-kye). Bronchi are tubes that connect to each of the lungs. One tube goes to the right lung, and one tube goes to the left lung. These tubes break down into smaller and smaller tubes called bronchioles (BRONG-kee-oles). They look like branches on a tree. There are about 30,000 bronchioles in each lung. Each bronchiole is as thin as a strand of hair. The bronchioles’ function is to carry air to small sacs in the lungs called alveoli (al-VEE-oh-lie). These tiny balloon-like structures move oxygen and carbon dioxide into and out of the bloodstream. The walls of the alveoli are very thin, which allows oxygen and carbon dioxide to pass easily into the capillaries (KAP-ill-er-ees), which are small blood vessels. The capillaries, which transport the blood, are where oxygen and nutrients are exchanged for carbon dioxide and waste.

When you breathe in, your diaphragm (DY-uh-fram), a dome-shaped thin muscle that sits at the base of the chest, contracts and flattens out. The diaphragm moves down, which allows your lungs to have more space to fill up with oxygen. When you exhale, your diaphragm

The right lung is larger than the left lung in humans. The left lung is smaller to leave room for the heart.

Did you know ?

Women and children have faster breathing rates than men.

A person usually breathes an average of 13 pints of air every minute.

relaxes, which causes carbon dioxide to be pushed out of the lungs. When you breathe in, as air moves down the windpipe or trachea, it travels near cilia (SILL-ee-uh). Cilia are tiny hair-like projections that push mucus out of your trachea. You either expel the mucus or swallow it. Cilia help keep debris out of your airways.

Breathe Out!

When we exhale and breathe out carbon dioxide, everything happens in a reverse order. The diaphragm will relax and push carbon dioxide out of the lungs. The blood now carries the waste products and carbon dioxide through the capillaries into the alveoli. From the alveoli, the air now travels back through the bronchioles, bronchi, trachea, and mouth or nose. I am sure you have noticed that when you exhale, your breath is warm and moist. Why is this the case? When the air travels back through the body, it picks up heat along the way. Nothing gets stuck when your lungs fill and empty, because the lungs are surrounded by pleural membranes. These membranes provide the lungs with the lubrication, or slipperiness, and cushioning needed to inhale and exhale. Pleural membranes reduce any friction which may develop between the lungs, rib cage, and chest cavity.

Lungs and Voice!

Did you know that your lungs are important for talking as well? The larynx (LAIR-inks), or voice box, is a part of the respiratory system and is located right above

Mechanism of Breathing

Words to know ?

diaphragm - a dome-shaped muscle that works with your lungs to allow you to inhale and exhale

trachea - windpipe

bronchi - major air passages that come from the trachea and connect to the lungs

the trachea or windpipe. The larynx is involved in swallowing, breathing, and voice production. It has two tiny ridges called vocal cords, which open and close to make sounds. Sound is produced when the air passing through the vocal cords causes them to vibrate, or move quickly and repeatedly, and create sound waves in the pharynx, nose, and mouth. The air that comes from your lungs when you exhale determines how loud a sound will be and how long a sound will last.

Staying Healthy!

Exercise is the best way to keep your lungs and heart healthy. Stay away from smoking, which can damage your lungs.

bronchioles - minute branches into which a bronchus divides alveoli - tiny air sacs at the end of the bronchioles

capillaries - very small blood vessels

cilia - tiny hairs that keep mucous and dirt out of the lungs

pleural membranes - special slick layers that provide lubrication and cushioning to the lungs

larynx - voice box vibrate - move quickly and repeatedly

lubricationslipperiness; greasiness

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. What is another name for the windpipe?

a. Alveoli

b. Trachea

c. Bronchus

d. Lungs

2. Which of the following contracts and flattens out as you breath?

a. Heart

b. Diaphragm

c. Windpipe

d. Cilia

3. What do the capillaries carry?

a. Blood

b. Water

c. Nitrogen

d. Dirt

4. What gas is expelled when you exhale?

a. Oxygen

b. Helium

c. Chlorine

d. Carbon dioxide

5. The lubricate and cushion the lungs when you inhale and exhale.

a. Trachea

b. Bronchi

c. Pleural membranes

d. Windpipe

Can you think about a time that you held your breath? What was happening around you? What did you feel inside? Write about the situation and the emotions that you felt.

A person who lives until will take 672,768,000 breaths in a lifetime.

Trivia Corner

Casts

Alittle boy is riding his bike down the street. Suddenly a pothole causes him to crash and fall to the ground! When he tries to get up, he realizes that his arm is broken. It hurts very badly, but the good news is a cast can help his bone heal properly and quickly.

A cast is a hard bandage that helps your bones heal properly by keeping them from moving around. Some people get casts when they break a bone or after some surgeries.

Putting on a Cast

When a doctor puts on a cast, he’ll first wrap some soft material around the injured limb to protect the skin from irritation. Depending on the injury, the doctor will decide whether to put on a cast made of fiberglass or of plaster of paris.

Fiberglass casts are most common since all you have to do is wet the plastic material in warm water to make it flexible, then wrap it carefully around the soft material. For plaster of paris, a white powder is mixed with water into a paste, then it is applied to the soft wrapping for a cast. Either way, the cast has to harden before the patient can leave the doctor’s office.

Did you know ?

Children between the ages of 2 and 14 were found to have more than 41 percent fractures happen at home. This was followed by 26 percent at playgrounds, 18 percent at sports facilities, and 13 percent at schools.

Did you know ?

Taking Care of a Cast

When wearing a cast, it’s important to take care of it so the bone can heal correctly and no infections happen. Here is a list of different ways to prevent any problems while wearing a cast:

• Don’t pick at the cast or pull out any of the lining.

• Use something like tape or moleskin to protect skin from any sharp edges the cast may have.

• Never put anything inside a cast, even if it’s itchy. Scratching can lead to infection.

• Most casts are not waterproof, so make sure to cover it properly before taking a bath. Keeping the cast dry is easier when taking a bath than a shower.

• If a cast gets wet, or if it’s a waterproof cast, a blow dryer set to cool can be used to get the water out gently.

There are times when a parent may need to call the doctor, especially if the cast begins to feel too tight, the wearer feels pain or discomfort, fingers or toes begin to feel numb, become swollen, or change color, or if there’s a bad smell or strange liquid coming from under the cast. If the cast is not waterproof and gets very wet, the doctor should be called for that as well. He will most likely need to replace the cast.

Up to 20 percent of bone fractures will not heal properly.

Keeping the cast dry is easier when taking a bath than a shower

Taking Off a Cast

The cast has been on for weeks, there are signatures all over it from caring friends and family, and it’s finally time to have it removed! At the doctor’s office, they will most likely use a small electrical saw to take off the cast. The skin that was under the cast may look pale and flaky, and the limb may feel lighter after the cast is gone. Even though the muscles under the cast are weaker, everything will return to normal within a few weeks.

Did you know ?

As you get older, fractures happen more easily. People 85 and older are four times more likely to break a bone than those between the ages of 65 and 75.

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. Why do people sometimes need casts?

a. To treat a bad scratch

b. When a bone is broken

c. Because they fell

d. If their arm hurts

2. What happens first when wrapping a cast around your arm?

a. You wait for the cast to get hard.

b. The doctor removes your cast.

c. A soft liner is wrapped around your arm.

d. Fiberglass or plaster of paris is applied to your arm.

3. It’s important to keep the cast .

a. Wet

b. Fancy

c. Dry

d. Warm

4. What should someone do if their fingers or toes become swollen when wearing a cast?

a. Call their doctor

b. Tap them on a hard surface

c. Scratch them

d. Nothing

5. When a cast comes off, the muscles under the cast .

a. May feel stronger

b. May be bigger

c. May change color

d. May seem weaker

Many kids have had a cast on their arm or leg–and maybe you’re one of them! An important part of having a cast is taking care of it so you don’t get an infection and your bones heal correctly.

Imagine that you injured yourself and had to get a cast on your arm or leg. Write a paragraph about what you would need to do to take care of your cast. Include information on how you can keep it dry and prevent infection.

Trivia Corner

There are about visits made to hospital emergency departments for broken bones each year.

Braces

Did you know ?

Look

all around you. How many people do you see with perfectly straight teeth? Probably not very many, and that’s why braces are a pretty common sight. Braces are used to straighten crooked teeth or teeth that are not aligned properly. Aligned means just what it sounds like–lined up or arranged. You or someone you know might have braces now or had braces in the past. Braces have been used for many years. Archaeologists are people who study the remains of ancient civilizations. Archaeologists have found evidence that toothstraightening equipment was used even in the olden times. They found ancient bodies with gold wires tied

Braces types

around their teeth to make them move closer together and close any spaces, or gaps, between them.

Over the years, braces changed in how they look and are used. They started to be called braces in the early 1900s, but they were different from today’s braces. Dentists would wrap bands around each tooth and connect them with a wire. The wire was adjusted, or moved slowly, to put pressure on the teeth and move them slowly into place. Sometimes the bands were made of ivory, wood, copper, or zinc, but gold was the material that all dentists preferred. Preferred means liked better. It wasn’t used too often because most patients couldn’t afford it. Instead, many dentists used silver since it was cheaper than gold and was easier to work with than the other materials.

In the 1970s, a dental adhesive, or glue, was invented. Now dentists could attach brackets to the teeth without having to wrap a wire around each tooth to keep the brackets in place. Brackets are small squares attached to the teeth to keep the wires in place. At around the

aligned – arranged; positioned

archaeologists –

people who study the remains of ancient civilizations

gaps – spaces adjusted – moved slowly

preferred – liked the most adhesive – glue; sticky material brackets – small squares attached to the teeth to hold the wires

strain – stress; overwork

joint – place where two bones fit together

clenching – closing tightly

orthodontists –dentists who treat tooth and jaw problems

Words to know ?

Removable Braces

Invisalign Braces Metal Braces

Did you know ?

The thin, flexible wires orthodontists use for braces was developed by NASA in 1959.

same time, dentists started using stainless steel instead of gold or silver. The patients liked it because it was much cheaper, and the dentists liked it because they could shape it easily. Another improvement at that time was putting brackets on the inside of the teeth instead of the outside. They worked just as well, but no one could see them.

Invisalign

Invisalign braces were invented by two college students in 1997. Invisalign uses clear plastic tray straighteners that put pressure on certain parts of the teeth. This causes the teeth to slowly move into a better position. People like Invisalign braces because they fit over the teeth and aren’t as noticeable as the brackets and wires. They also like that they can take them off when they eat or drink or want to brush and floss their teeth. Invisalign became so popular that the company makes over $560 million every year!

Reasons for Getting Braces

Many people get braces because they are not happy with how they look. They would like their teeth to be straighter,

Invisalign uses clear plastic tray straighteners that put pressure on certain parts of the teeth

giving them a nicer smile. But sometimes, getting braces is necessary for medical reasons. When the teeth do not meet as they should, it can cause strain, meaning stress, on the jaw muscles. This can cause jaw and joint problems and also sometimes headaches. Joints are places where two bones fit together. Teeth that are not aligned properly can also lead to other issues, such as clenching, which means closing tightly, or grinding the teeth while sleeping. This can cause the teeth to become worn down. Also, it can be hard to clean teeth well when they are crowded or overlapping. This makes it more likely for people to get cavities or gum disease.

Who Gets Braces?

Children are not the only ones who get braces. Sometimes adults do as well. They may have needed them when they were younger, but perhaps their parents couldn’t afford to pay for them. Maybe they were afraid to have them when they were younger, but once they become adults, they decide to go ahead with it. Orthodontists, dentists who treat tooth and jaw problems, report that they now sometimes have patients in their 60s, 70s, and even 80s with braces!

Did you know ?

Almost four million people in the United States alone wear braces. About 25 percent of them are adults.

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. How do we know that braces have been around for a long time?

a. Our grandparents told us.

b. Archaeologists dug up an old dental school.

c. Archaeologists found ancient bodies with wires around their teeth.

d. Everyone in ancient times had straight teeth, so they must have had braces.

2. Why did dentists start making braces out of silver?

a. It was cheaper and easier to work with.

b. People liked how they looked with a silvery smile.

c. Food didn’t get stuck in them as much.

d. Silver lasted longer than any other material.

3. What makes Invisalign so popular?

a. The trays can be removed while eating.

b. The trays can be removed for brushing.

c. They aren’t as noticeable as wires and brackets.

d. All of the above

4. Which of the following is NOT a possible result of having misaligned teeth?

a. Cavities

b. Nosebleeds

c. Headaches

d. Gum disease

5. Why do many adults get braces?

a. They want to feel young again.

b. They are jealous of their children.

c. They can afford them more easily.

d. Their grandchildren tell them to.

Imagine you had a friend who really needed braces but was afraid to get them. What would you say to your friend to convince them to get braces?

Trivia Corner

Every tooth has its own nerve, which is contained in the .

Did you know ?

The term dentist first appeared in 1728 with a French dentist named Pierre Fauchard who wrote about dental disease.

Going to the Dentist

Keepingyour teeth healthy is one of the best things you can do for your overall health. Brushing with fluoride, using dental floss daily, and going to the dentist regularly will help your teeth stay healthy.

A Dentist’s Job

A dentist is a doctor who examines and takes care of teeth, gums, and other tissues in the mouth. Dentists will check for any problems inside your mouth and look at how the teeth are developing. Visiting your dentist every six months is recommended so they can check that you are taking good care of your teeth and gums.

At the Dentist

At the dentist’s office, you often have to sit in the waiting room until you are called. Once in the exam room, you will notice a large chair similar to a recliner where you will sit. Attached to the chair is usually a tiny sink that you will use for rinsing your mouth after having your teeth cleaned.

How Are Teeth Cleaned?

A dental hygienist will usually greet you once you are in the chair. The dental hygienist knows how to keep your teeth and gums healthy. They will clean and polish the teeth or assist the dentist in doing so. A bright overhead light will shine inside your mouth while the dentist and hygienist are working. They will use tools like a tooth scraper, a tiny mirror, and a powered toothbrush. The tooth scraper will help remove plaque from your teeth. Plaque is a thin, sticky layer that coats the teeth and contains bacteria , or germs. Over time, if the plaque is not removed, the teeth will get cavities , which is decay.

Once the plaque has been removed, the dentist or hygienist will use the powered toothbrush that has a rounded bristle tip. Then they will floss your teeth and model for you how you should do it at home. Dental floss is a waxed string that gets in between the teeth and helps to remove food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach.

Words to know ?

dentist - doctor who examines and takes care of teeth, gums, and other tissues in the mouth plaque - a thin, sticky layer that coats the teeth and contains bacteria

bacteria - germs

cavities - decaying parts of the tooth bite - how the bottom and top teeth come together fluoride - a natural mineral that makes teeth strong and helps prevent future cavities

orthodontistspecial dentist that corrects the position of the teeth using braces or other orthodontia

Did you know ?

Checking for Cavities

When your teeth are all cleaned and polished, the dentist will look for signs of cavities. They may use an X-ray machine which helps to see cavities hiding between your teeth and underneath your gums. Taking an X-ray does not hurt. The hygienist will usually place a heavy, thick blanket over your chest before taking the picture. This blanket protects your body from high-energy waves that come from the X-ray machine. The hygienist will place a piece of plastic that holds the X-ray film inside your mouth. Next, you will bite down very carefully onto the plastic, hold completely still for a few seconds, and the dental hygienist will snap the picture using the X-ray machine. The dentist will then study your X-rays, looking for cavities or other problems.

Dentists will also look at your bite. This is how the bottom and top teeth come together. If there is a problem, the dentist will refer you to an orthodontist. An orthodontist’s job is to position the teeth correctly using braces or other orthodontia.

Once the teeth have been cleaned and checked for cavities, the dentist or dental hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that makes your teeth strong and helps prevent future cavities. Fluoride is a gel or foam that is applied to the teeth. It can come in fun

Child’s dental x-ray. Notice the adult teeth waiting for the baby teeth to fall out so they can come in

Before toothbrushes were invented, people would use twigs and rags to scrape or wipe their teeth.

How to use dental floss

flavors like bubblegum and grape. It only takes a few minutes to apply, but the dental hygienist will ask you not to eat or drink for half an hour after the treatment.

I Have a Cavity!

If the dentist finds a cavity, you will have to come back to have it fixed. The dentist will usually numb the area around the tooth first. Then the dentist will use a tool to remove the decayed part of the tooth. That area will be filled with a new material so your tooth will stay strong and healthy. The filling can be tooth-colored or silver.

Leaving the dentist is always the fun part. Usually there are some prizes for you, like a toy from the surprise box, a new toothbrush, and a small tube of toothpaste.

Did you know ?

Tooth

enamel is the hardest part of the entire body, even harder than bone. One third of your teeth are underneath your gums.

Tear off the thread and reel over your fingers

Thread between dental spaces

Clean gently, trying not to injure the gum

Don’t forget to brush the gaps between the far teeth

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. How often should you visit the dentist?

a. Once a year

b. Once every six months

c. Every two years

d. Every three months

2. What is the thin, sticky layer that coats the teeth and contains bacteria?

a. Gums

b. Plaque

c. Rot

d. Fluoride

3. What is dental floss used for?

a. To tie one tooth to another tooth

b. To clean food from in between the teeth

c. To keep braces in place

d. None of the above

4. What substance makes your teeth strong and protects your teeth from future cavities?

a. Chewing food

b. Water

c. Milk

d. Fluoride

5. If the dentist is going to fill a cavity, what will they do first?

a. Numb the area around the tooth

b. Brush the gums

c. Use dental floss

d. Use the tooth scraper

Pretend you are going to teach a child how to brush their teeth for the first time. Write about what supplies they would need and how to go about brushing their teeth correctly.

Trivia Corner

It takes muscles to frown and muscles to smile. Show off those pearly whites!

Did you know ?

If you call 9-1-1 on a cell phone, the dispatcher can probably track your location if you are unable to speak.

How to Use 911

Afather

and his children were walking home from an evening at the local park. When the family got to the street they lived on, the father noticed that flames were billowing out of the neighbor’s second story window. What should the father do?

He first got his children and himself away from the fire. He called 9-1-1 on his phone. He clearly stated that help was needed from the fire department. He calmly gave his name and the exact location of the emergency. He listened carefully to the dispatcher’s instructions and was able to answer with great detail. He waited safely across the street from the fire until the fire trucks arrived within five minutes.

The father acted appropriately, or correctly, because he knew what to do in an emergency. An emergency is a serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate attention. The father was trained to use 9-1-1. 9-1-1 is an emergency phone service where a caller can ask for serious help from a first responder. Every child and adult should learn how to use 9-1-1, when it is appropriate to call 9-1-1, and what situations are not emergencies.

How to call 9-1-1

Take a deep breath now. This is the first step when calling 9-1-1. You must stay calm. If you call on a landline phone, all you need to do is lift up the handset, listen for the dial tone, and then press 9-1-1. If you are calling on a cell phone, you must first press 9-1-1, then press the call button. The 9-1-1 dispatcher who answers your call is trained to collect the information needed to get you help quickly. The best way to handle the emergency is to respond clearly and calmly to the dispatcher.

Have the important facts ready in your mind. The three most important pieces of information are:

Words

to know ?

appropriatelycorrectly emergency - a serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate attention

Did you know

?

If you call 9-1-1 and hang up, the 9-1-1 dispatcher is required to call you back. If you don’t answer, the 9-1-1 dispatcher will send police to wherever the call was made from.

• What is happening? (accident, fire, injury)

• What do you need? (police, fire department, ambulance)

• What is your location? (address, cross street, landmark)

Staying on the phone with the dispatcher is very important. Do not hang up until they tell you to do so. The dispatcher is in communication with emergency services and is able to give updates while you wait for the first responders.

When to Use 9-1-1

Emergency services take 9-1-1 calls very seriously. These calls are for emergencies only. They are not for “pretend” calls. Think about some situations that you should call 9-1-1. Passing out while running in a race may require a call to 9-1-1. Getting in a serious car accident that requires help to exit the vehicle may require a 9-1-1 call. Being struck by lightning is serious enough to require a call to 9-1-1.

When Not to Use 9-1-1

Sometimes events in your life may seem like an emergency to you but are not serious enough to require emergency services. Think of some situations where someone was hurt, but it did not require a call to 9-1-1.

A little boy falling off of his bike and skinning his knee would not be a reason to call 9-1-1. Getting into an argument with your brother over a toy is not a reason to call 9-1-1. Getting a parking ticket is not a reason to call 9-1-1 for help. All of these situations should be handled with the help of a parent or another adult, but calling 9-1-1 should not be an option. All 9-1-1 services should be for serious emergencies only.

Have a conversation with your family about how to use 9-1-1. Tell them what you learned and how the use of 9-1-1 will keep them safe and protected.

Did you know ?

You can be charged with a crime if you call 9-1-1 as a prank.

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. What phone number should you call if you have an emergency and you need the police, fire department, or ambulance?

a. 0

b. 9-1-1

c. 888

d. 4-1-1

2. For which of the following should you call 9-1-1?

a. A bump on your knee

b. A cut on your elbow

c. A house fire

d. A lost dog

3. When should you NOT call 9-1-1?

a. When you are bored

b. To ask for directions

c. To pay a parking ticket

d. All of the above

4. What information should you know if you have to call 9-1-1?

a. Your first and last name

b. The location of the emergency

c. What type of emergency it is

d. All of the above

5. How should you act when you call 9-1-1?

a. Yell

b. Cry

c. Scream

d. Remain calm

If you ever have to call 9-1-1 for an emergency, you should remember some important pieces of information. Write a paragraph about what you should do and say if you are on the phone with a 9-1-1 dispatcher.

The first 9-1-1 call was made in Alabama on February 16,

Trivia Corner

Did you know ?

Your bike chain should always be well-oiled and rust free. 84

Bike Safety

Bike

riding can be a fun activity to do with your friends. It is a wonderful form of exercise and can be a great way to bond with others. To have a positive experience, a cyclist must practice bike safety so accidents can be prevented. Read on to learn different ways to practice bike safety.

What should I wear on my head?

should fit snugly. Any bike store can help you find the right size. Your forehead must be covered, the helmet should be level, and never wear a hat underneath it. Make sure you can see easily with the helmet on. Then take the chin straps and affix them underneath your chin. Add a few reflective stickers to the helmet, too.

You can perform the shake test once the helmet is snapped in place. Shake your head up and down and side to side. If your helmet does not move, it is correctly fit in place. Remember that the purpose of the helmet is to prevent your head from serious injury. If you are in a bike accident and your helmet is damaged, it is time to replace it.

What is the right bike for me?

To stay safe while riding, you should be sized correctly for the right bike. Straddle the main bar across the bike so your feet touch flat to the ground. You may have to raise or lower the bike seat.

bike helmet - a specialized hard hat to protect your head right turn hand signal - bend your elbow, holding your arm up in an “L” shape, and ride forward slowly left turn hand signal - hold your arm straight out to the left and ride forward slowly stop hand signalbend your elbow, pointing your arm downward in an upside down “L” shape, and come to a stop

Hand signals

Left turn hand signal

Right turn hand signal Stop hand signal

Did you know ?

Every bike should have a rear reflector so drivers can see you at night.

Everytime you ride your bike, you should familiarize yourself with the equipment on the bike. Do I have enough air in my tires? Do my brakes lock and release easily? Paying attention to the parts of the bike are preventative measures to staying safe. If your brakes were locked in place, you wouldn't ride the bike. If you have low air in the tires, you can easily use a bike pump to fill them with air.

Cycling glasses

What should I wear while riding a bike?

You should always wear closed-toed shoes or sneakers. Wearing slippers or just socks is not a safe way to ride a bike. Wear well-fitted clothing so nothing gets caught in the bike chain. If you have to ride at night, even though daytime bike riding is preferred, wear reflective clothing. Have a bike light while you are out riding at night and never use headphones. You must be alert to all of your surroundings while riding.

Should I learn bike signals?

When riding your bike, you must ride with the flow of traffic. Sometimes you will need to make a turn on your bike when cars are around. Knowing the proper hand signals while riding will keep you safe. All hand signals are done with the left hand. For a left turn: You should check behind you, hold your arm straight out to the left, and ride forward slowly. For a right turn: Check behind you, bend your elbow, holding your arm up in an “L” shape, and ride forward slowly. For a stop: Check behind you, bend your elbow, pointing your arm downward in an upside down “L” shape, and come to a stop. Following all of these instructions will help keep you safe while biking.

Did you know ?

A cyclist can get a ticket if they disobey the law while riding a bike.

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. What should you wear on your head when you ride a bike?

a. Winter hat

b. Cap

c. Bike helmet

d. Nothing

2. What part of the bike should be checked often so you can stop safely?

a. Brakes

b. Handlebars

c. Reflectors

d. Seat

3. Which one of these items should you wear while riding a bike?

a. Slippers

b. Sneakers or shoes

c. Socks

d. Open-toed sandals

4. When is the best time to ride your bike?

a. During a snow storm

b. In the rain

c. On a sunny day

d. In the nighttime

5. Which one of these rules of the road is safe?

a. Use hand signals when making a turn

b. Ignore stop signs

c. Ride your bike across an intersection

d. Listen to music on headphones

Write a paragraph about the ways to practice bike safety. Give at least four examples.

The first bike helmets were invented in by Bell Sports.

Trivia Corner

Hey! A Bee Stung Me!

Whenpeople say they have been stung by a bee, they really mean that they have been stung by a flying insect with wings and a stinger. Besides bees, wasps and flying ants also fly and sting.

Bees are fuzzy insects found worldwide. There are thousands of types of bees, but the kind we are most familiar with is the honeybee. Bees collect nectar and pollen from flowers. Nectar is a sweet, syrupy liquid produced by flowers, and pollen is dust-like particles found in flowers. Bees turn the nectar into honey for food in their hives. Some of the pollen is used as protein for baby bees. The rest is carried from one plant to another, so more plants will grow.

Wasps are similar to bees. Besides nectar and pollen, wasps also eat the meat of dead animals, other insects, and spiders. They are skinnier than bees and look shiny and smooth, not fuzzy like bees. Like bees, there are thousands of types of wasps, but two of the most common types are bald-faced hornets and yellowjackets.

Bald-faced hornets are black with white markings, and

yellowjackets have yellow and black striped bodies. They are smaller than hornets and honeybees.

Ants are usually found in the ground, but some have wings and can fly. Some, like the fire ant, can also sting! Fire ants live in nests under the ground. They are reddish-brown and tiny.

Ouch!

Bees, wasps, and fire ants all look different and live in different natural homes, called habitats, but they have one thing in common. They all sting when they’re upset or feel threatened. Being stung by any of them feels like getting a shot, except worse. The pain can last from one to two hours. The area around the sting feels hot and may be itchy. There may be swelling, which can last up to seven days. After a bee or wasp sting, a red bump surrounded by white skin will develop around the sting site, or area, lasting up to three days. A fire ant sting turns into an itchy blister.

Honeybees have special hooks on their stingers, so the stinger stays in the person’s skin. When the honeybee tries to fly away, the stinger

The bee’s stinger continues to pump venom into you after it’s no longer attached to the bee. That’s why you should remove as soon as possible without squeezing it.

nectar – sweet, syrupy liquid secreted by flowers pollen – fine, dustlike particles found in flowers habitats – natural home site – area

antihistamine –medicine used to treat allergies and reactions

venom – poison reaction – response severe – very bad symptoms – signs; indications

Words to know ?

Bee

Wasp

Fire ant

Bee

gets torn out of its body, and it dies. Wasps and other kinds of bees can sting more than once because they can pull their stingers out without harming themselves.

What To Do After Being Stung

After being stung by a honeybee, pull the stinger out of the skin as soon as possible. Wash the area with soap and water, apply ice, and take medicine to relieve the pain. Call the doctor if there is a lot of itching, redness, or swelling. They might suggest taking an antihistamine, a medicine used to treat allergies, to help relieve those issues. They are caused by the bee poison, called venom, which the stinger shoots into the skin.

Some people are allergic to bee stings and might need to get a shot from a doctor to keep them from getting

venom has medicinal properties and is used to treat muscle and joint pains.

Remove stinger Apply ice Wash sting site with soap Apply antibiotic

a reaction to the sting. A reaction is a response to some action or event. Anaphylaxis is a severe, meaning very bad, reaction to a bee sting that can be life-threatening. Its signs, or symptoms, are difficulty swallowing and breathing starting within two hours of being stung. Fortunately, this only happens to four out of every 1,000 people. People who are very allergic sometimes carry a medication called an EpiPen with them so they can use it quickly if they are stung.

Preventing Bee Stings

No one likes to be stung, so what can you do to prevent it? If you’re spending time outdoors, don’t wear anything sweet-smelling, including perfumes, lotions, or hair products. But DO wear shoes! Don’t wear bright-colored or flower-printed clothing. Keep your food covered as much as possible, and check your soda cans before drinking from them. Sometimes yellowjackets like to climb inside for a sip too! If a bee or wasp flies near you, stay calm and don’t swat at it since this will make it upset and more likely to sting.

Did you know ?

Only the worker honeybees, the females, sting. The males, called the drones, do not have stingers.

Honeybees, the females

The drones, the males

Directions

Read each question and choose the best answer.

1. Which of the following is NOT a flying, stinging insect?

a. Fire ant

b. Honeybee

c. Tarantula

d. Wasp

2. How are wasps different than honeybees?

a. They are not fuzzy

b. They can sting multiple times

c. They eat spiders and other insects

d. All of the above

3. Which of the following does NOT occur after a bee sting?

a. Redness

b. Insomnia

c. Itchiness

d. Swelling

4. Which of the following is a symptom of an anaphylactic reaction?

a. Difficulty breathing

b. Double vision

c. Difficulty swallowing

d. A & C

5. Why shouldn’t you swap at a bee or wasp flying near you?

a. You might scratch yourself on their stinger.

b. They might think you’re telling them to come closer.

c. They might feel threatened and sting you.

d. They might tell the rest of their friends to come.

Describe a time when you were stung or were afraid you would be stung by a bee.

Queen bees lay around eggs per day.

Trivia Corner