Home
The
Skeletal System of the Human Body
| Subject: | Culture |
| Curriculum Area : | Science; K-6th Grade |
Students will be able to:
1. Appreciate different cultural practices
2. Prevent bodily injury in the form of strains
Prerequisite Skills:
1. Basic knowledge of body parts and related terms such as the following:
(a) spine
(b) joints
(c) back
(d) bone
(e) strain
(f) legs
(g) knees
(h) bend
| Materials: | Filmstrip projector, chalkboard, heavy books, cloth for head, and chart of "The Spine." |
| Activity: | Demonstration |
Throughout the African Diaspora, people carry objects on their heads. Sometimes they walk for miles, or run, and children even play at the same time. As we discussed, people carry things this way because of tradition. It is a method that has been passed down from generation to generation. Is this practice healthy? What do you think? Let us look at the important parts of the body used to carry heavy objects. Can anyone in the class name some parts of the body that we use for carrying things?
Procedure:
If necessary, the teacher will demonstrate for the class correct ways to lift and carry heavy objects to avoid back strain. Students will discuss why the spine is important. A filmstrip by Eyegate will be shown.
Post-Evaluation:
Students will demonstrate safe ways to carry heavy objects.
Stick figures can be drawn on the chalkboard. Teacher will elicit from class which stick figure is carrying objects with the least strain on the back.
Students will also be asked to try to carry objects just as the African market woman in the picture. Ask, "Is it as easy as it looks? Why do you think it is more difficult for you to do than for the woman in the picture?"
Jo-Anne R. Foster