Spirometry & Lung Volumes Science Activity

This activity will allow pupils to learn about lung volumes and how spirometry is used
to record and assess breathing patterns
Spirometry is a test that is used in doctors’ surgeries and hospitals to assess how well
someone’s lungs are working.
People who are breathless when exercising or who have a cough or wheeze (noises
coming from the chest when breathing) are often referred for spirometry.

Spirometry Practical Activity
This activity will allow pupils to learn about lung volumes and how spirometry is used to record breathing patterns. They will have an opportunity to act as both the ‘clinician’ and the ‘patient’ during the session. They will be encouraged to measure the height and weight of the subject and then perform the test under supervision.

The subject breathes into the spirometer using a mouthpiece, wearing a noseclip to stop them breathing
through their nose. The subject’s breathing pattern, including the volume and speed of their breaths is recorded and can be used to diagnose conditions such as asthma, emphysema and lung fibrosis.

The test is normally interpreted by comparing measured values to ‘reference’ ranges which are based on values expected in the healthy population.

The activity could be tailored to be mapped against various
learning outcomes including those related to:
- Gas exchange & ventilation
- Anatomy of the respiratory system
- Air pollution, smoking, and respiratory health
- Mean values, normal distribution, and standard deviation

Spirometry is a safe test, but we would check that anyone participating was healthy
and free from any conditions that may be aggravated by the test. It is quite a simple
test, but it does involve a lot of physical effort by the subject to get good quality,
meaningful results.

In the unlikely event that abnormal results were identified, we would advise the pupil
to tell their parents/guardians to take them to their GP for further a health check.

Location: On campus and/or in school or other location
Available in Welsh: No
Preparation required: None
Costs: Free

Enquire about this event