Pipe Cleaner Neuron, Grades 6-8
Lesson on the neuron and neurotransmission; students create a model neuron out of pipe cleaners
Background
The human brain is made up of approximately 86 billion nerve cells called neurons. Neurons are like other cells in the body in that they have a cell body and a nucleus and contain structures such as mitochondria. However, they also have features that make them unique. It is these specialized structures of a neuron that allow brain cells to communicate with one another in a process called “neurotransmission.” In this hands-on exercise, students will first learn about the structure and components of a neuron and how they facilitate neurotransmission. Then they have the opportunity to create a realistic model neuron out of colorful pipe cleaners.
Student Objectives
- Understand the main components of a neuron and their functions.
- Discover how neurons communicate with one another during “neurotransmission.”
Lesson Plan
- Title: Pipe Cleaner Neuron
- Setting: In Classroom Subject: Biology -Neuroscience
- Grade Level: 6-8
- Time Frame: 40 Minutes
- Paired Dana Foundation Fact Sheets: 6th-8th Grade How Does the Brain Work?
- Next Generation Science Standards: Meets MS-LS1-1, MS-LS1-3, & MS-LS1-8
Download PDF and PowerPoint presentation