The Skeletal System

The skeletal system is important in that it gives structure to the human body.  Without it, we would be a compilation of tissues that has no form at all, except maybe a blob.  It consists of connective tissues such as bones, ligaments, and cartilage and the bone itself is composed of cells and extracellular material, while ligaments which are composed of dense fibrous connective tissues attach the bones together (Johnson, 2010).  The cartilage forms intervertebral disks and lines the points of contact between the bones (Johnson, 2010).  Bone development begins in the embryo and mature bone undergo remodeling and repair throughout life (Johnson, 2010).  Bones can change shape over time depending on external factors they are exposed to such as stress, injury, or chemicals.  The skeleton protects, supports, and permits movement (Johnson, 2010). 

Reference:

Johnson, M. D. (2010). Human Biology: Concepts and Current Issues (5th ed.). San Francisco: Pearson Education.

(p.s. I can't seem to "tab" the reference and make it center and have correct citing of reference.)