The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in a hands-on scientific exploration of the effects of exercise on the human body, fostering curiosity and understanding of physical health. Through real-world investigations and collaborative activities, students will develop critical thinking skills and deepen their knowledge of body systems and health impacts. The project aims to encourage students to apply scientific principles to promote healthier lifestyles within their community.
Learning goals
Students will understand the anatomy and function of the heart, lungs, and muscles and how these systems interact during physical activity. They will develop skills in data collection and analysis, using evidence to make claims about the health benefits of exercise. Students will enhance their communication abilities by presenting findings and collaborating with peers and community members. They will engage in self-directed learning through reflection and feedback, refining their understanding of cause and effect relationships in body systems.
Standards
[Wisconsin] SCI.3.CC.2 - Students use science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and cause and effect relationships to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
[Wisconsin] SCI.3.CC.1 - Students use science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and patterns to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
[Wisconsin] SCI.3.CC.4 - Students use science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and an understanding of systems and models to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
[Wisconsin] SCI.3.CC.6 - Students use science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and an understanding of structure and function to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
[Wisconsin] SCI.3.CC.7 - Students use science and engineering practices, disciplinary core ideas, and an understanding of stability and change to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.
Competencies
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.
Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
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.
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.
Products
Students will create interactive models of the heart, lungs, and muscles that demonstrate their functions during exercise, which they will present at the Physical Health Festival. Additionally, they will design collaborative posters or infographics that visually represent the observed patterns and changes in body systems throughout the project. These products will help students communicate their findings and deepen their understanding of the scientific concepts explored during the exercise investigation.
Launch
Begin with the "Exercise Science Start" by organizing activities where students explore how different types of movement or exercise affects their body. Students will measure their heart rates and breathing during the challenge, fostering excitement and curiosity about how exercise impacts their bodies. After the activity, students will share initial observations with peers, setting the stage for deeper exploration and inquiry into the effects of physical activity on the human body.
Exhibition
Organize a 'Physical Health Festival' where students showcase their interactive models of the heart, lungs, and muscles in action during exercise. Include student-led presentations and performances that highlight the health benefits of exercise and its impact on community well-being. Invite classmates, teachers, and community members to engage with the exhibits and participate in activities that demonstrate the physiological changes experienced during exercise.
Copied from
Pedal Power: Exploring Bodies in Motion