Animal Anatomy & Drawing Club: Advanced Study - Eye, Pig, & Cat

*This class is adapted for younger learners (Age 7-12) - it is great for visual and kinesthetic learners. 

Class (teacher-led) - they will obtain an in-depth knowledge of animal anatomy. 
Club (learner choice) - learners will help decide how things go - what we draw, what we watch or read. 

For this class elementary learners will have the opportunity to learn about animal anatomy by making 3D paper models. Bring on the scissors, glue sticks, and coloring supplies! These models are anatomically correct; allowing your learner to become more familiar with specimens that are commonly dissected in the study of animal anatomy. Learning the anatomy while in elementary school will allow your learner not only to explore but also to gain early exposure to concepts covered in High School Biology courses. 

For each model will be completed over two weeks, week 1 learners will be guided to step-by-step to color body systems and organs of the model being studied. They will learn basic facts about the animal being studied. While doing this they will practice vocabulary and learn basic functions of different body systems. Learner can choose to learn more about the model animal or related animal. Class will include books from Epic and videos. Learners will have some time to cut while learning about animals, but should also plan time outside of class to work on cutting out pieces. 

Model class 2 learners will be guided to put together the pieces of the model, step-by-step photos will be shown for visual learners. Models are coded to guide assembly, similar to putting together legos with guide - A1 goes on A, etc. 

As models are put together body systems will be discussed using a color code system, that allows for easy comparison of systems between models. They will compare and contrast animal anatomy and body systems. To encourage their curiosity, they will learn fun facts, explore habitats, and study animals related to the models being studied. Learners will then have the opportunity to learn to draw the animal being studied. Step-by-step instructions will be given on the screen. Learners will help choose which related animal they would like to study. 

In class, I prefer to be sensitive to learners and their needs. Some learners enjoy interacting, while others may prefer to be more quiet. In both cases, I enjoy asking learners about their interests and incorporating this into the class experience. They are budding scientists exploring a fascinating world, they will be encouraged to ask questions and dive deeper broadening their knowledge of animals. At the end of the model assembly class, learners will follow along with their models as they watch a real specimen dissection video! This is optional, learners who prefer not to watch are welcome to work on their drawings. Yes, if your learner has specimens at home, they will be well prepared.

Class format: (30 minutes anatomy work/ 30 minutes drawing+)

Class 1 Color body systems/Animal Study/draw (learner choice!) 
  - 1 to 3 Sessions
Class 2 Animal Study (finish cutting) / Assemble Model/ Watch specimen dissection/draw (learner choice!)
 -  1 to 3 Sessions

Let's explore anatomy by studying different animals and their unique physical characteristics, as well as their anatomy.

Learners will be guided in their study as they prepare and assemble models. The complexity of the model will impact the time required to complete the models. These detailed models are anatomically correct, learners color code organs for easy comparison of body systems. This process will allow your learner to gain in-depth knowledge of animal anatomy. As we are working learners are encouraged to ask questions and interact.

Schedule:
Week 1: Eye (Color & Cut) 
 Week 2: Eye (Assemble & Video Dissection)
Week 3: Pig (Color & Cut)
Week 4: Pig (Assemble & Video Dissection)
Week 5: Cat (Color & Cut)
Week 6: Cat (Assemble & Video Dissection) 
Week 7: Review