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7th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Body Breakdowns: A Systems Survival Guide

Allyson S
Updated
LS.7.1.3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in a hands-on exploration of human body systems and their interactions, fostering a deeper understanding of biological processes through real-world applications. By creating educational materials and presenting them to younger students, participants will enhance their communication skills and critical thinking while reflecting on medical advancements. This project aims to build a sense of identity and belonging as students collaborate with community partners, receive peer feedback, and showcase their work in a 'Body Systems Museum.'

Learning goals

Students will investigate and model the hierarchical organization of multicellular organisms, exploring how cells, tissues, organs, and systems interact to support life. They will analyze historical and modern medical treatments for body system failures, developing a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of healthcare. Through collaboration with community partners and peer feedback, students will refine their communication skills by creating educational materials and presenting their findings to younger students. By engaging in hands-on activities, such as a 'Body Systems Escape Room' and a 'Body Systems Museum,' students will apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to real-world scenarios.

Standards
  • [North Carolina] LS.7.1.3 - Use models to explain how the hierarchical organization of multicellular organisms from cells to tissues to organs to systems to organisms functions to support life.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Students will collaboratively construct a 'Body Systems Museum' featuring interactive exhibits. These will include models, posters, and digital presentations that illustrate the hierarchical organization of multicellular organisms and the interactions between body systems. Each exhibit will incorporate historical and modern medical advancements, providing a comprehensive timeline of treatment evolution. The museum will serve as an educational resource for younger students, who will engage with the exhibits through guided activities and presentations led by the creators.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic 'Body Systems Escape Room' challenge, where students collaborate in teams to solve puzzles related to symptoms and treatments of body system failures. Integrate clues that require understanding of cellular structures and interactions between body systems. Follow this with a 'Health Heroes Symposium' featuring guest speakers from Life Fitness and physical therapists, providing insights into body health and system failures, setting the stage for students' exploration and creation of educational materials.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Body Systems Museum' exhibition, showcasing their educational materials, including models, posters, and digital presentations. Younger students will be invited to explore interactive exhibits, engaging in hands-on activities that demonstrate the interactions between body systems. This event will serve as a platform for students to present their findings, communicate complex concepts effectively, and receive feedback from their peers and community partners.