Building a Circulation City
The PBS series RED GOLD: THE EPIC STORY OF BLOOD delves into the facts and myths about human blood. The series explores an array of historical events that have led us to a fuller and richer understanding of this vital fluid. Of particular interest is the first episode, FROM MAGIC TO MEDICINE. This episode describes the work of three scientists who were the first to begin to explain the magic of blood: Galen, Vesalius and Harvey.
This activity will expand on and emphasize the importance of blood and the circulatory system. Special note will be taken of how all organ systems of the body depend on a continuous flow of blood. This lesson may be used as a long-term activity culminating blood and circulatory system studies. It involves cooperative learning, research, art and language arts.
Grades 5 - 7
2 - 2 1/2 weeks
Life Science: human body systems
Students will be able to:
- Identify the different organ systems in the human body.
- Explain the flow of blood through the body.
- Name the parts of the circulatory system.
- Represent the different parts of the human body in a creative manner.
Life Sciences, Standard 5:
Understands the structure and function of cells and organisms
Knows that multicellular organisms have a variety of specialized cells, tissues, organ, and organ systems that perform specialized functions (e.g., digestion, respiration, reproduction, circulation, excretion, movement, control and coordination and protection from disease).
Working With Others:
Contributes to the overall effort of a group; uses conflict-resolution techniques; works well with diverse individuals and in diverse situations; displays effective interpersonal communication skills; and demonstrates leadership skills.
Technology Foundation Standards for All Students:
Technical Standards 3 and 4
Uses technology tools to enhance learning, increase productivity and promote creativity. Uses telecommunications to collaborate, publish, and interact and a variety of media formats to communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences. Uses technology to locate, evaluate and collect information from a variety of sources and to process data and report results.
This lesson was prepared by: Bob Berwick