Sheep Heart Dissection10:43Life Science lab
Sheep Heart Dissection
A sheep heart has the same four chambers and four valves as a human heart. The base is the broad top where the large vessels attach, and the apex is the pointed tip. Auricles are the flaps beside the atria, which receive blood. The right ventricle has the thinner wall and pumps blood to the lungs. The left ventricle has the thicker wall and pumps blood through the body. The tricuspid and mitral valves stop blood from returning to the atria. The pulmonary and aortic semilunar valves stop blood from returning to the ventricles. Blood from the body enters the right side, goes to the lungs, returns to the left side, and leaves through the aorta.
Sheep Heart Dissection10:43Learning sequence
- PrepareRead the guide and complete the pre-lab.
- ObserveWatch the dissection. Follow your teacher's directions with the specimen.
- RecordComplete the observations and drawings on the lab write-up.
In This Lab You Will
Orient the heart using the base, apex, and the groove between the ventricles, and distinguish anatomical right from left.
Locate the four chambers, compare their walls, and explain the role of the septum.
Identify the four valves and the structures that support the atrioventricular valves.
Trace blood from the body to the lungs and back to the body.
Complete the pre-lab and the lab write-up.
Materials
Preserved sheep heart, dissecting tray, two blunt probes, forceps, dissecting scissors, a teacher-approved scalpel, protective eyewear, gloves, protective clothing, paper towels, ruler, and assigned recording materials.
Safety
Wear protective eyewear, gloves, and protective clothing. Keep the heart supported in the tray. Cut away from your fingers and partners, using small, controlled movements.
The teacher should demonstrate or perform the main opening cut. Never hold the heart in your palm while cutting.
Follow directions for preservatives, sharps, storage, and disposal. Wash your hands after cleanup.
Photos & Anatomy References
Select an image to enlarge it. These labeled figures are from the dissection guide. The number key is part of each figure.
Labeled photographs from the Mr. E Science sheep heart dissection guide.