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What is a Human Body Diagram?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

A human body diagram is a representation that outlines the major structures within the human body. This diagram should include a drawing or outline of the skeletal system and internal organs within the body. This blueprint is much like a human body map which details aspects such as the the muscular, digestive and cardiovascular systems. Many schools implement human body diagrams in their classrooms. Some of these roll up and can be pulled down for easy access.

Designed for easy recognition of functional aspects of the human body, the labeled human body map enables individuals to locate specific body parts. The labeling might be printed in bold letters or in specific colors. Some of these typically include the kidneys, liver and gallbladder. Nearly all detailed human body diagrams will include more complex structures as well, such as the Achilles tendon of the lower leg.

This human body diagram shows some common problems with the Achilles tendon.
This human body diagram shows some common problems with the Achilles tendon.

In many cases, a medical human body diagram will generally be seen in a doctor's office. In addition to the typical body map, these diagrams might outline specific injuries or diseases within a particular location. For instance, some representations might depict a tear of a ligament or tendon. Many times, these diagrams are outlined with specific colors to identify particular muscle groups or organs.

Some types of medical charts include human body diagrams.
Some types of medical charts include human body diagrams.

There are online sources that allow the individual to print a human body diagram. These printable diagrams might be close-up selections of one area or a general outline of the entire body structure. Some online diagrams might simply be an outline that is not labeled. The blank portion could allow for students to write the specific body organs in the correct locations. Some teachers use these for assignments or testing purposes.

A growing number of human body software programs are incorporating three-dimensional, or 3D, modeling to better display the parts in the body.
A growing number of human body software programs are incorporating three-dimensional, or 3D, modeling to better display the parts in the body.

Another type of human body diagram is available in a three-dimensional (3D) software format. Some of these might incorporate voice interpretation for the major organs and body structures. Others might be interactive and allow for more versatility. A human body diagram, whether it is depicted on a computer software program or simply printed on paper, can outline purposes of many functions within the anatomical structure.

A human body diagram should outline the internal organs within the body.
A human body diagram should outline the internal organs within the body.

In essence, the human body diagram as a chart can be detailed or basic. In more of the elaborate atlas collections, every physiological function from cellular activity to the five senses might be covered. Such a collection is typically bound together in some type of spiral notebook or hard cover book. These books are typically separated into chapters and indexed for reference.

Discussion Comments

rlp17

@Anna32 - I don't think anyone in their right mind would seriously consider showing a med school anatomy diagram to a grade school student and expect them to comprehend it. However, I do see you point and it is a good one with regard to the general population.

For anyone who was wanting to learn the basics, then a diagram of the human body like one you would see in a doctor's office is probably sufficient. But for someone wishing to gain a deeper knowledge of the body, something a bit more complex is in order. Perhaps not med school material, but certainly something a bit beyond a human body diagram for kids.

Anna32

I think it is worth noting that there are many different diagrams of the human body that correlate to the educational or maturity level of the intended audience. A diagram designed to educate medical students, for example, may as well be printed in Greek when shown to a typical middle school student.

Therefore, I think it is prudent for anyone wishing to educate another on the anatomy of the human body to first consider the level of education and capacity for understanding of their prospective "student." After all, one cannot begin to learn if one cannot first understand the basics.

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    • This human body diagram shows some common problems with the Achilles tendon.
      By: Alila
      This human body diagram shows some common problems with the Achilles tendon.
    • Some types of medical charts include human body diagrams.
      By: Tom Wang
      Some types of medical charts include human body diagrams.
    • A growing number of human body software programs are incorporating three-dimensional, or 3D, modeling to better display the parts in the body.
      By: nerthuz
      A growing number of human body software programs are incorporating three-dimensional, or 3D, modeling to better display the parts in the body.
    • A human body diagram should outline the internal organs within the body.
      By: reineg
      A human body diagram should outline the internal organs within the body.