7.2.2

The Digestive System - The Mouth

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The Mouth's Role in the Digestive System

The first stage of digestion happens in the mouth.

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Chewing and mixing

  • The food is chewed by teeth.
  • The food is mixed with saliva in the mouth.
  • Chewing helps make the food smaller.
    • Making the food smaller makes digestion easier.
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Role of the tongue

  • The tongue helps to move the food around the mouth.
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Swallowing of food

  • Food is moved to the back of the mouth when it has been chewed enough.
  • The food is then swallowed.
  • The food passes down a tube called the 'oesophagus'.
    • The oesophagus connects the mouth to the stomach.

Jump to other topics

1Year 3: Plants

2Year 3: Animals (Including Humans)

3Year 3: Rocks

3.1Rocks on Earth

4Year 3: Light

5Year 3: Forces & Magnets

6Year 4: Living Things & Their Habitats

7Year 4: Animals, Including Humans

8Year 4: States of Matter

9Year 4: Sound

10Year 4: Electricity

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