Great for visual and kinesthetic learners. This animal dissection series will cover five different creatures: sponge, clam, star fish, squid and shark. The labs will begin with a general summary of the animal being studied, followed by an examination of its external and internal anatomy. As the classes progress, we will compare different specimens to observe special adaptations and increasing complexity of body systems. The anatomically correct models mimic actual dissections.

The students will receive step-by-step guidance to create a 3D model and understand the functions of organs using a numeric key. The use of models will help in learning basic dissection techniques and terminology. This approach is ideal for students who learn best through visual and kinesthetic methods. 

Homework: 
-Prior to class print PDF files from class page (template and numeric key, 2-3 pages each)
-This class is intensive, it is crucial for learners to prepare cut pieces before each session. 
   **Learners have the option to print a colored model or a black-line template that they can color themselves. Having the numeric key while cutting or coloring will be beneficial and aid in becoming familiar with the parts. 
      
   Students will be given an overview of classification and animal being studied. 
   We will then study the external parts followed by the internal organs. 
   As they learn about the parts they will be added to the model. 
                                       
This course is being offered as lab experience for High School Biology students, the purpose to give them guided lab experience toward meeting lab requirements. 

Animal dissection is an important part of High School Biology and the study of how animal organs are laid out, preparation for studying human anatomy as well. It can be hard to try to do on your own if unfamiliar with the techniques used to properly dissect a specimen. A major challenge is not just dissecting the specimen, but also identifying its parts. The organs and layers may not be as clear as they appear in diagrams. Building 3D paper models can help students understand how the organs are arranged in a physical sense, including when they overlap or are hidden. The lab lecture includes an introduction to the classification of animals and an overview of human anatomy.

This can be used as a stand alone lab study, students interested in further study can compare their models with videos of actual specimens or to dissect a real specimen.  (PETA offers free resources for humane dissection studies using digital resources if students are interested in further study alternatives.) 
       
Week 1: Introduction and Sponge/ Sea Star
Week 2: Clam  
Week 3 : Squid
Week 4: Squid
Week 5: Shark
Week 6: Shark
    
This course is being offered as lab experience for High School Biology students, the purpose to give them guided lab experience toward meeting lab requirements. 

Animal dissection is an important part of High School Biology and the study of how animal organs are laid out. It is also can be hard to try to do on your own if unfamiliar with the techniques used to properly dissect a specimen. One of the biggest challenges is not only dissecting the specimen but also recognizing the parts you are seeing, the organs and layers are not always as obvious as the book diagram. The 3D paper models we will be create, will give students better understanding physically how the organs are laid out, literally overlapping, sometimes hidden. 

This can be used as a stand alone lab study or for students further interested they can dissect a real specimen or use a digital alternative study. (PETA offers free resources for humane dissection studies using digital resources if students are interested in further study alternatives.)  A variety of dissection videos and resources can be found at: https://www.oh-worm.com/