SAVY Saturday, Week 3, Biology of the Body (5th-6th)
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Week 3 of the Biology of the Body!
Today, our scholars engaged in a fascinating experiment. They were asked to choose between two types of candy, and we recorded the results in a bar graph. We then discussed the reasons behind their choices, exploring why certain candies were preferred or equally chosen. This experiment served as an analogy for tuberculosis (TB) research, where scientists compare new treatments with existing ones. While TB is curable with current medications, researchers are striving to develop new drugs that work faster, have fewer side effects, and are more palatable, especially for children. Currently, TB medications for kids need to be crushed, but new formulations aim to eliminate this need. Developing new medications is a lengthy and challenging process, often taking over 15 years of clinical trials to ensure safety and efficacy. Despite these challenges, the advancements in medical research continue to bring hope for new and effective treatments
Our students also took on the role of researchers, examining the connection between TB and immunodeficiency. They learned about a family in South Africa affected by both TB and HIV, and the complexities of treating both illnesses simultaneously.
Additionally, students attended a virtual field trip to the Amazon Pharmacy facility, where they were introduced to cutting-edge technology and the people behind Amazon’s operations. The facilitation guide provided an excellent tour experience for our students.
At the end of the day, our students showcased their exceptional dedication and thoroughness in their research presentations on TB control measures. Each group analyzed various strategies, considering both scientific data and practical implementation of safety precautions for a fictitious high school. From vaccination programs to innovative approaches to improving ventilation and hygiene practices, they left no stone unturned.
One standout presentation proposed a comprehensive awareness campaign, combining educational workshops with interactive activities to emphasize the importance of TB prevention. Another group suggested regular health screenings and a support system for affected individuals. The depth of their research and the clarity of their presentations were truly impressive. Their commitment to finding feasible and effective solutions for TB control highlights the incredible potential of our future leaders in public health.
Questions For Discussion:
- Why is tuberculosis especially dangerous to immunodeficient people?
- What was the most interesting piece of information you gleaned from the virtual field trip?
- What was the most important thing you learned during this unit and why?
- Did you learn anything that would help you know how to solve the problem? What was it and how is it helpful?
Additional Resources for Further Research
As we conclude this chapter of our journey through the fascinating world of the human body, I want to express how much of an honor it has been to teach each of your scholars. Exploring the intricacies of biology with a special focus on tuberculosis and other infectious diseases has been incredibly rewarding. Their curiosity and dedication have made this experience truly memorable.
Thank you for your enthusiasm and commitment to learning. I look forward to you continuing your exploration of the wonders of biology and hope to see these young scholars in future SAVY sessions.
Best regards,
Tiffani S. Norman