University of Minnesota
Connect the Neurons!
Create a neuron frenzy as your pupils play the part of the neurons. An engaging lesson creates a human chain of neurons that pass cotton balls posing as neurotransmitters. Scholars learn about pre- and post-synapses as they complete...
Curated OER
Role of Cerci in Escape Responses of the Cockroach
Students investigate the changes in escape behavior in Madagascar Hissing Cockroahes when their sensory apparatus is removed. They use puffs of air at differnt angles to simulate a predator's approach then collect and analyze data on...
Curated OER
Neuron Anatomy Comparison
Pupils create a scale model of a motor neuron that is two hundred times larger than the actual neuron. They identify the structures of a neuron and observe neurons under the microscope then use a worksheet to convert actual sizes into...
Curated OER
Making Connections: Exploring Our Brains through the Five Senses
Students record observations and create drawings and models of anatomy using their five senses. They describe the structures of a neuron and analyze each of their functions. They compare and contrast the typical structural features of a...
Curated OER
Making Connections: Exploring Our Brains through the Five Senses
Students identify structures of the brain, and neurons and analyze their functions. For this nervous system lesson students create drawings and models of anatomy.
Curated OER
Remember to Stop and Smell the Roses: Olfaction and its Relationship to Memory
Young scholars discover that olfaction elicits memory associations. They investigate how olfaction compares to other sensory modalities in the formation of memories. This is a hands-on lab activity guaranteed to build memories in your...
University of Minnesota
Neurotransmission Model
Don't lose your marbles — you'll need them for a lesson on neurotransmission. Young scholars build a neurotransmission model using marbles, beads, rubber bands, string, and other elements. After studying specific neurotransmitters,...
Curated OER
Memory/Physiology Lab Activity
Students investigate the nervous system and how physical distractions influence mental performance. They work in pairs as a researcher and subject and memorize a series of words with no distractions. After repeating the list of words,...
Curated OER
Mapping the Homunculus
Students determine the relative number of nerve endings located in the skin. By calculating the reciprocal of these measurements, students have the appropriate data for predicting the relative size of the homunculus found on the cerebral...
Curated OER
Reflexes
Students experiment to explain how reflexes, nerve impulses travel to the brain.