Explore the Body Systems: Weekly Human Biology Club for Middle School

Understanding of the human body and how it functions optimally is an essential piece of our growth and well-being. As a child, I took a very keen interest in the way our bodies and brains work with the environment around us. I continued to develop this passion throughout my adult life via different avenues, from becoming a health coach, to a group fitness instructor, to studying linguistics and the brain. I feel this foundation has helped me to understand my own personal responsibility for my health and has extended into my role as a homemaker. I would consider myself a lifelong learner in the world of science and discovery. Our bodies are magnificent, adaptable, alike and also different. 

In this ongoing course, learners will explore body systems and their interactions with one another in an engaging visual journey, followed by discussion of the observations and new things we have learned. 

Each class will begin with greetings and introductions. Students will then have a short discussion about what they know about the weekly topic or questions they have, or begin a KWL Chart (What I Know, What I Want to know, What I Learned).  Next, learners will take a visual journey through the week's body system. This 20-30 minutes slideshow will include photo, text, video and interactive questions or games. Students will learn the organ names and location in the body, processes, functions, chemical reactions, and requirements of each system. We will use macro-examples to give learners real-life comparisons and use a variety of learning games and discussion to reinforce concepts. After a 15-20 minute discussion, class will wrap up with finishing our KWL Chart. There will be a short preview for the upcoming week before saying goodbye. 

Tentative Schedule
Week of May 3: Cellular Structure
Week of May 10: Digestive System
Week of May 17: Immune System
Week of May 24: Circulatory System
Week of May 31: Respiratory System
Week of June 7 : Nervous System
Week of June 14: Epithelial System 
Week of June 21: Endocrine System 
Week of June 28: Musculoskeletal System

Students will be provided with handouts to support learning goals in each class.