National Science Education Standards

Life Science Content Standard C: As a result of their activities in grades 5-8, all students should develop understanding of structure and function in living systems. Principles that underlie this standard include structure and functions of cells, tissues, organs, systems for movement, control, and coordination. A behavioral response requires coordination and communication at many levels, including cells, organ systems, and whole organisms. (pp. 155-157).

AAAS Benchmarks

By the end of 5th grade, students should know that the brain gets signals from all parts of the body telling what is going on there. The brain also sends signals to parts of the body to influence what they do. (p. 136)

Human Identity Grades 6-8: By the end of the 8th grade, students should know that human beings have body systems for providing coordination of body systems. (p. 129) "Students can now develop more sophisticated understandings of how organs and organ systems work together." This includes the carrying of messages by nerves to help the organism respond to its environment. "Asking 'What if?' questions such as 'What might happen if some other parts weren't there or weren't working?' can stimulate students to reflect on connections among organs." (p. 137) By the end of the 8th grade, students should know that interactions among the senses, nerves, and brain make possible the learning that enables human beings to cope with changes in their environment.