Third Grade Medical Students

As a thrilling finale to their third CKLA Unit on Human Body Systems, students embraced the challenge of stepping into the shoes of first-year medical students in Aimee Pagano's 3rd grade classroom. They embarked on an exciting journey through six “medical rotations” set up throughout the classroom, which was transformed into a bustling hospital environment.   

Dressed in isolation gowns and equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), the students were fully immersed in their roles, carefully avoiding contamination of their work areas and the “patients” they attended to. Each activity was thoughtfully designed to deepen their understanding of human anatomy and physiology. 
 
The students kickstarted their experience by constructing a detailed model of the spinal column, which gave them insight into its vital function. They then sequenced the intricate pathways of light and sound as it travels through the eyes and ears, enhancing their understanding of sensory perception. 
 
In a unique communication exercise, students practiced conversing solely in sign language, allowing them to experience the importance of non-verbal communication. They also undertook a comparative analysis of the muscular, skeletal and nervous systems, examining both their differences and how they are interconnected. Finally, they engaged in a lively game of Operation. They had so much fun performing surgery on their "patient," they didn't even realize the game was helping them improve their dexterity and precision.