Description

Thanksgiving dinner wreaks havoc on the body! In this research-style Thanksgiving activity, students relate a traditional holiday meal to their Anatomy & Physiology course. Effects on the nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, and circulatory system are all included. What a great way for them to bring home new content knowledge!

This makes a great addition to my Full Anatomy & Physiology Curriculum or Full Biology Curriculum!

Three versions of the lesson are provided:

1. Reading lesson– Students read the passage provided and answer comprehension questions about each body system.
2. Traditional web-quest– Students use links provided to find information from web-pages and videos to answer comprehension questions.
3. Digital (perfect for iPads or Chromebooks)- A Google link is provided for students to make a digital copy of the worksheet. They use embedded links to research answers to the comprehension questions.

The variety of options allows this activity to fit well as a warm-up, homework assignment, holiday lesson, or sub activity!

Included are 5 links to provide content showing students how overeating can affect various body systems.

The research topics include:

–Digestive system (rugae, stomach size and function, heartburn, lower esophageal sphincter, stomach acid)

–Nervous System (tryptophan, serotonin, dopamine, psychological benefits of gratitude)

-Endocrine System (hormones, cholecystokinin, glucagon, amylin, oxytocin)

-Cardiovascular System (blood pressure, arteries, heart rate, endothelial lining)

Comprehension questions are included for students to process learning and can be completed on the printable copy or on a separate piece of paper.

*Note: YouTube links are used in this resource. This webquest is not recommended if YouTube is blocked by your school.

Included:

• 1 Reading Passage highlighting the effects of overeating and gratefulness on the body
• 1 Color Digital Page including 10 comprehension questions and 5 web-links
• 1 Black & White Printable Page (same questions and links)
• 1 Answer Key