Build-a-Brain, Grades K-5

Background

The “Build-A-Brain” exercise integrates a fun sensory and motor activity with a basic neuroanatomy lesson. The instructor first provides a short explanation of brain structures and the functions they sub-serve. Students are then asked to utilize this information to create the brain of an imaginary animal using Play-Doh.

Students are asked to present and describe their imaginary animal’s brain and functions to the rest of the class. This exercise facilitates a broad range of learning styles, and the difficulty level can be adapted to suit a variety of grade levels and educational backgrounds.

Student Objectives

• Explore the structure and function of various parts of the human brain.
• Understand the differences between the brains of comparative animal models.
• Utilize knowledge to create the brain of an imaginary animal.
• Refine oral communication skills by presenting work to peers.

Lesson Plan

• Title: Build-A-Brain
• Setting: In Classroom
• Subject: Biology – Neuroscience
• Grade Level: K-5
• Paired Dana Foundation Fact Sheets:
  • 3rd-5th Grade Human and Animal Brains: How Do They Compare?
  • 3rd-5th Grade How Does the Brain Work?
• Next Generation Science Standards: Meets 3-LS1-1, 3-LS4-2, 3-LS4-3, 4-LS-1, and 4-LS1-2

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