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f. Thymus Gland

The thymus gland is located inside the chest and protected by chest
bones. It produces white blood cells called lymphocytes. It develops
an antibody in our body that helps our irnmune system fight the
disease and infection.

g. Gonad

Gonad is a sex gland or reproductive gland. The male one is known
as the testis and the female one is the ovary. The testis releases
the testosterone hormone. It helps to produce sperms. It is also
responsible for the development of male characteristics such as
growing moustaches, growing hairs under the arms, growing pubic
hairs, deep voice, and enlargement of the penis.

The primary function of the ovary is to secrete estrogen and
progesterone hormone. Estrogen plays a role in producing ova. It is
also responsible for the developn1ent of female characteristics such as
growing hairs under the arms, growing pubic hairs, and enlargement
of breasts. On the other hand, progesterone prepares a suitable
environment to implant and grow the fertilized ovum.It supports the
fetus to develop and grow in the uterus. It also helps to produce milk
after child birth.

h. Pancreas

Pancreas is located below the abdomen which is attached to the
duodenum of small intestine. It is called mixed gland because it
performs both functions; functions of exocrine and endocrine glands.
It releases the digestive juice as the exocrine gland, whereas it
produces insulin and glucagon hormone as endocrine glands. These
hormones control the sugar level in the blood.

Functions of Endocrine System
a. It helps in circulation, respiration and digestion.

b. It helps to control the body temperature in the body.

c. It absorbs the essential nutrients.
d. It plays a vital role in the growth and development of the bones.

8 Health, Physical ai1d Creillive arts, grade 8