After this lesson, the learner should be able to:

• Explain what a vertebrate is 
• Define the terms 'exoskeleton' and 'endoskeleton'
• Explain what bones, joints and cartilage are in the context of vertebral skeletons 
• Identify bones, joints and cartilage in x-rays and images 
• List the major bones comprising a vertebral skeleton
• Describe the functions of the major bones comprising a vertebral skeleton