Halloween Learning Lab: Bones of the Human Skull and Skeletal System
Explores the human skeletal system, focusing on skull bones, structure, and function. Through Halloween-themed activities, interactive lessons and hands on lab. Students will learn anatomy in a fun, engaging way.
Ms. Crystal
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(34)
What's included
1 live meeting
30 mins in-class hours per weekAssessment
includedClass Experience
Class Description: In this exciting 15-week virtual class, students will embark on a hands-on journey into the human skeletal system, with a special focus on the bones of the skull. Through engaging, Halloween-themed activities, interactive lessons, and creative labs, students will learn about the structure, function, and importance of each skull bone. We'll cover key topics such as the cranium, facial bones, major sutures, paranasal sinuses, the orbit, and the nasal cavity. Students will also explore how these bones connect with one another and work together to protect vital organs like the brain, eyes, and lungs. Class Experience: The class will be structured around weekly lessons, each focusing on a specific aspect of the human skull and skeletal system. We'll use a variety of teaching methods to keep students engaged and actively participating: Introduction to the Human Skull The Major Bones of the Skull The Mandible and its Importance The Cranium – Protecting the Brain The Eye Sockets (Orbits) The Nasal Cavity The Zygomatic Bones (Cheekbones) The Temporal Bones The Sphenoid Bone The Ethmoid Bone Skull Sutures and Fontanelles Skull Variations: Gender and Ethnicity The Role of the Skull in Human Evolution Fun with Skull Art Skull Anatomy Review and Final Project Interactive Lessons: Through detailed visuals and group discussions, we'll break down complex anatomy concepts into fun, easy-to-understand segments. Hands-On Activities & Labs: Students will get the chance to label the skull, conduct simple experiments to understand bone structure, and even design their own skull-themed artwork. Games and Quizzes: These will help reinforce knowledge of the skull bones and anatomy in a fun and competitive way. Video Clips and Visual Aids: Students will watch educational videos and slideshows to see real-life examples of skulls in different contexts, such as evolutionary history, animal comparisons, and cultural references. Group Discussions: There will be weekly group discussions to allow students to ask questions, share insights, and reflect on what they've learned. I will guide students through each week's topic in an engaging and accessible way, with plenty of opportunities for questions and feedback. Students can interact with me during the lessons, in live Q&A sessions, and through shared activities. The course is designed to be dynamic, so learners will have an active role in their education. This class promotes an inclusive learning environment by incorporating different learning styles, such as visual, auditory, and kinesthetic approaches. Expect lots of hands-on labs, clear explanations, and creative thinking! This isn't just a lecture-based class; it's about exploration, fun, and making complex ideas easy to understand through a Halloween lens. At the end of 15 weeks, this class will repeat itself and go back to class one.
Learning Goals
Identify and label the major bones of the human skullUnderstand the function of each skull bone
Other Details
Learning Needs
Designed to support diverse learning needs, including ADHD, Dyslexia, and ASD, by offering interactive lessons, hands-on activities, and visual aids to engage multiple learning styles. I will provide clear instructions, breaks.
Parental Guidance
This class includes Halloween-themed activities and discussions around the human skull and bones, which may involve references to spooky imagery, skeletons, and horror-related media. Some learners may find these topics unsettling or scary. Additionally, the class will explore concepts related to death and anatomy, which could be sensitive for certain students. Please be aware that the media content (e.g., horror films or spooky visuals) used in the class is intended for educational purposes, but may not be appropriate for all learners. If you have concerns, please feel free to reach out before the course begins.
Safety precautions for hands-on activities, such as painting and using acrylic paint pens, should be followed. A smock or old T-shirt is recommended to protect clothing, and surfaces should be covered with newspaper, paper bags, or a plastic tablecloth.
No third-party tools or accounts are required for participation. All learning will take place within the virtual classroom, and materials will be shared directly with families.
Pre-Requisites
There are no specific prerequisite requirements for this class. It is open to all learners with an interest in anatomy, the skeletal system, and Halloween-themed activities.
Supply List
Learner Supply List for Each Week: Week 1: Introduction to the Human Skull Paper and Pencil: For taking notes and completing vocabulary exercises. Colored Markers or Crayons: For creating a Halloween-inspired drawing of a skull. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To start interacting with a realistic skull model and label major bones during the course. Acrylic Paint Markers Set of 18 Available on Amazon: To use on the Life-Size Skeleton Skull for labeling bones and features. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 2: The Major Bones of the Skull Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and completing vocabulary and quiz activities. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: Use to label the major skull bones (Frontal, Parietal, Temporal, Occipital, Nasal, Mandible, Zygomatic). Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For labeling the skull bones on the Life-Size Skeleton Skull. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 3: The Mandible and Its Importance Paper and Pencil: For taking notes and completing homework. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To examine and label the mandible. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For marking the mandible on the skull. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 4: The Cranium – Protecting the Brain Egg: To simulate the brain and cranium protection experiment. Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and project completion. Smock or Old T-Shirt: To protect clothing during the egg-cracking experiment. Newspaper or Plastic Tablecloth: To protect the table surface during the experiment. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: For labeling the cranium bones. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: To label the bones of the cranium on the Life-Size Skeleton Skull. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 5: The Eye Sockets (Orbits) Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and completing creative assignments. Markers or Crayons: For creating a Halloween-themed creature with skull eyes. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To examine and label the eye sockets. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: To mark the eye sockets and label related features. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 6: The Nasal Cavity Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and drawing. Markers or Crayons: For creating your haunted house scene using smells as the central focus. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To label the nasal cavity and surrounding features. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For labeling the nasal cavity. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 7: The Zygomatic Bones (Cheekbones) Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and sketching facial features. Markers, Crayons, or Colored Pencils: For creating a character sketch of a Halloween monster with prominent cheekbones. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To examine and label the cheekbones. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: To label the zygomatic bones. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 8: The Temporal Bones Paper and Pencil: For taking notes on hearing and balance and completing the haunted ear project. Markers or Crayons: For creative activities and artistic assignments. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To examine and label the temporal bones. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For marking and labeling the temporal bones. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 9: The Sphenoid Bone Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and labeling assignments. Markers or Crayons: For creating a fictional creature with a sphenoid-like bone structure. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To study and label the sphenoid bone. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For labeling the sphenoid bone on the skull. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 10: The Ethmoid Bone Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and writing a spooky riddle. Markers or Crayons: For creative drawing projects related to the ethmoid bone. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To examine and label the ethmoid bone. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For marking and labeling the ethmoid bone. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 11: Skull Sutures and Fontanelles Paper and Pencil: For drawing and labeling skulls in different life stages. Markers or Crayons: For adding detail to drawings and labeling sutures. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To study the sutures and fontanelles of the skull. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For marking sutures and fontanelles on the skull. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 12: Skull Variations: Gender and Ethnicity Paper and Pencil: For note-taking and research on famous historical skulls. Markers or Crayons: For creating visual representations of different skull types based on ethnicity or gender. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To compare skull shapes and features based on gender or ethnicity. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For labeling variations in skulls. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 13: The Role of the Skull in Human Evolution Paper and Pencil: For writing an essay on the evolution of the human skull. Markers, Crayons, or Pencils: For sketching early human skulls and drawing comparisons. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To compare modern and early human skull features. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For labeling and comparing bones from early human skulls. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 14: Fun with Skull Art (continued) Acrylic Paint Markers Set of 18 Available on Amazon: For decorating and designing creative skulls. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To paint, decorate, and label during the final art activity. Paper and Pencil: For sketching and brainstorming ideas for skull designs. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Week 15: Skull Anatomy Review and Final Project Paper and Pencil: For final project work, Q&A, and reflection exercises. Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor Available on Amazon: To showcase and present final projects by labeling and discussing skull bones. Acrylic Paint Markers Available on Amazon: For final touches and labeling on the Life-Size Skeleton Skull. Optional: Access to a 3D skull model (e.g., Visible Body or InnerBody websites) for virtual exploration. Reminder for All Weeks: Smock or Old T-Shirt: To protect clothing when working with acrylic paint markers and any messy activities. Newspaper or Plastic Tablecloth: To protect the work surface during hands-on projects. This Learner Supply List ensures that students have everything they need to fully engage with the activities and projects throughout the course. The combination of physical materials like the Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor and Acrylic Paint Markers will allow for hands-on, interactive learning. Access to 3D skull models gives students the flexibility to virtually explore the skull and bones, enhancing their understanding with visual aids.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
Books:
"Human Anatomy & Physiology" by Elaine N. Marieb and Katja Hoehn – This textbook provides in-depth explanations of the human skeletal system, including the skull's anatomy and functions.
"The Human Skeleton" by Anne L. Green – A comprehensive guide to understanding the bones of the human body, including detailed information on the skull.
Websites:
Visible Body (www.visiblebody.com) – An interactive 3D model of the human body and skull, which will be used for virtual exploration of the bones and their functions.
InnerBody (www.innerbody.com) – An educational website offering interactive models and detailed descriptions of human anatomy, including the skull.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Bones
(https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/bones) – A trusted source of information on the skeletal system, including general bone functions and specific details about skull bones.
Videos:
CrashCourse Anatomy & Physiology Series (YouTube) – These educational videos will introduce students to the basics of anatomy, with a focus on the skeletal system, including skull bones.
Khan Academy – Human Anatomy and Physiology (https://www.khanacademy.org/science/health-and-medicine/human-anatomy-and-physiology) – A video series that offers clear, digestible lessons on bones, including the skull, which will be used as supplementary material for the class.
Interactive Tools:
Bone Lab (https://www.bone-lab.com/) – A website that allows students to engage with 3D bone models, which will be used in class for hands-on identification and labeling of skull bones.
Skull Lab: An Interactive Skull Model (https://www.biointeractive.org/classroom-resources/skull-lab-interactive-skull-model) – An online tool that provides a detailed, interactive skull model to help students label and learn about different parts of the skull.
Class Materials (Amazon):
Life-Size Skeleton Skull Decor (https://amzn.to/4gT4VgJ) – A realistic life-size skull decoration perfect for classroom activities and hands-on learning, helping students visualize and study skull anatomy in a more engaging way.
Acrylic Paint Pens (Set of 18 Fine Point Paint Pens) (https://amzn.to/4i8U4jQ) – These high-quality paint markers will be used for creative skull design projects, allowing students to decorate and personalize their skull creations while reinforcing their learning.
These sources will be incorporated into the class materials, and students will have access to the tools and references to support their learning and reinforce the topics covered in the course.
Joined December, 2021
5.0
34reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
I am thrilled to offer a variety of engaging classes in Beauty/Cosmetology, Herbal Plants, Health, Hygiene, Skin Care, DIY Skin Care Products, and Home Economics. In addition to these, I will also provide classes on Animals, Life Skills, and more.
As a homeschooling mom, I bring a personalized approach to teaching. I am a licensed cosmetologist with over 25 years of experience in the beauty industry and the proud owner of a successful hair business. My deep understanding of cosmetology allows me to guide students in discovering their own creative potential.
I am also a certified Master Herbalist, holding several diplomas and certifications, including
- Master Herbalist Diploma Certification with Distinction
- International Alliance of Holistic Therapists Master Herbalist Diploma
- Continuing Professional Development Certificate in Master Herbalism
Beyond beauty and herbalism, I have a lifelong passion for animals. I am the owner of a pet care business, with over 40 years of hands-on experience caring for a wide range of animals—from horses to hamsters, hedgehogs, parrots, and more. My extensive knowledge and love for animals help me offer unique insights in my animal-focused classes.
In addition to my professional expertise, I have completed various certifications to ensure the highest standards in health and safety:
- Safe Space Certified (Lucasol training) – Understanding of proper sanitation and disinfectant practices and procedures.
- Training in Infection Prevention and Control
- Domestic Violence Training through Shear Haven
- Barbicide Training – Proper sanitation and disinfection practices consistent with the highest industry standards.
- Infection Control – Committed to Health and Safety Certificate
Additional Training:
- NRA Basic Pistol Course Completion/Training
My teaching approach is interactive and hands-on, encouraging students to immerse themselves in the subject matter. I aim to create a supportive and inspiring environment where students feel confident to explore their interest.
When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, caring for my pets, and experimenting with new herbal remedies and skincare products. These hobbies often influence my teaching and help me bring real-world experiences into the classroom.
I look forward to meeting your learner and helping them explore their passions. Enroll in one of my classes today, and let's embark on an exciting learning journey together!
Reviews
Live Group Class
$15
weekly1x per week
30 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-18
1-7 learners per class
