Structure and Function in Biology Kristen J. Champion Vanderbilt University Dept. of Biomedical Engineering

Project Definition Problem: Students often find concepts in biology abstract and difficult to understand Goal: The aim of this project is to aid upper middle school to high school level students in their understanding of these concepts by developing teaching aids, analogies, hands- on-models, etc. that relate structure to function in a simplified, interesting manner

Project Structure Three topics (modules) were chosen for project concentration: –(I) Structure and function within macromolecules (DNA, RNA, proteins) –(II) Structure and function within the cell (cellular organelles) –(III) Structure and function within organ systems (the digestive system)

Engineering Physiology is an important component of Biomedical Engineering Biomedical Engineers must have a good understanding of biology as well as engineering principles Structure and Function key to physiology

Theory Levels of Processing Theory: The more meaningful associations we make when learning new material the more likely we are to comprehend and remember it.

Overall Status Approximately 80% completed; Research completed, currently on construction of learning aids Timeline of the project:

Project Background Advisor: Vicki H. Metzgar - Coordinator NSF GKI2 Teaching Fellows Of the nearly 25 million middle and high school level students, approximately 7% (1.75 million) have learning disabilities in math and/or science unrelated to I.Q.

Current Status Website updated Research on all modules completed Lesson plans outlined for all modules Design of learning aids for all modules complete Currently constructing learning aids for all modules Currently brainstorming validation procedures

Transparencies: Module II: Learning Aid – Cell / City comparison Module III: Learning Aid – Motility Organs of Digestive System Comparison Module I: Functions of DNA Lesson Plan Outline for modules II

Future Plans Complete construction of teaching aids for all modules Design Safe and IWB analysis Determine validation procedures Final Poster/Paper presentation

References Werth, Alexander. Simple Lesson Plans in Biomechanics and Biological Materials Using Everyday Objects. The American Biology Teacher, Volume 63, Sherwood, Lauralee. Human Physiology, From Cells to Systems, Fourth Edition, 2001.