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Module 1
An Introduction to the Brain and Nervous System
Extensions
1. Divide the students into pairs and give each a copy of
the Brain Parts Fact Sheet. Assign each pair a part of the brain and have them draw their own original cartoon character or superhero that represents this brain part. For example, students assigned the occipital lobe might draw a character with very large eyes, and students assigned the cerebellum might draw their character playing football or dancing ballet. After drawing the cartoon, each pair should think of a fun name for their character and then introduce him or her to the class.
2. Have students develop timelines charting the
major findings and breakthroughs in brain research. Divide the students into small groups and have each group focus on a specific timeframe (e.g., 0 - 1700 AD, 1700 - 1900, 1900 - present). Encourage students to highlight key milestones on their timelines. The following Web site is a good starting point:
http://faculty.washington.edu/chudler/hist.html
3. Have students create a plan for a board
game to show the process of neurotransmission.
Make sure they cover all the major parts of the process. You can present the activity with the following framework to build motivation.
The object of the game is for the neurotransmitter to reach the receptors across the synapse. What kind of obstacles would the neurotransmitter face in your game? What pieces would the neuron need to collect before it can send the message? What would the board look like?
Have students create a visual presentation for their games. In this activity, you are the president of a board game company looking to make and sell the best neurotransmission game. Judge the presentations based on creativity and scientific accuracy.
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