9th Grade  Project 1 week

Digestive Detectives: Unraveling Nutrient Mysteries

Juliane T
Updated
Effective Communication
Content Expertise
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to deepen students' understanding of the digestive system's structure and function through hands-on exploration and collaborative projects. Students will investigate how the gastrointestinal tract's layers contribute to digestion and nutrient absorption, while developing critical thinking and communication skills. By engaging in real-world research and presentations, students will connect their learning to health issues that impact their communities.

Learning goals

Students will grasp the complexity of the digestive system, understanding the roles of different organs and the structure of the gastrointestinal tract layers. They will explore mechanical and chemical digestion processes and the importance of nutrient and water absorption in the intestines. Additionally, students will investigate how disorders and aging impact digestive health, applying critical thinking to analyze real-world implications. Through effective communication, they will present and reflect on their findings, demonstrating content expertise and problem-solving skills.

Competencies
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • 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.

Products

Students will create educational videos demonstrating the digestive process, highlighting the impact of disorders on nutrient absorption. They will also design research posters for a 'Gastrointestinal Gallery Walk' to showcase their findings on digestive disorders. Throughout the project, students will contribute to a digital reflection board, documenting their learning experiences and insights.

Launch

Begin with an interactive "Nutrient Quest" scavenger hunt, where students explore clues and solve puzzles related to the digestive system. This activity will guide them through the journey from ingestion to absorption, highlighting key processes and functions. It sets the stage for deeper exploration by engaging students in hands-on learning and sparking curiosity about how the digestive system works.

Exhibition

Organize a 'Gastrointestinal Gallery Walk' where students display their research posters and educational videos on digestive disorders. Invite peers, teachers, and family members to engage in discussions about the findings and their impact on health. Encourage students to explain their projects and answer questions, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their work.