Summer SAVY, Session 3 Day 1, “Biology of the Body: Exploring Human Body Systems” (5th-6th)
Welcome to an exciting first day of exploring the circulatory system! Today’s lessons cover a lot, from understanding biological systems to hands-on discoveries.
Introduction to the Circulatory System
Students explored how the circulatory system moves blood, oxygen, nutrients, and waste throughout the body.
Parent discussion questions:
- How would you explain the circulatory system to someone who doesn’t know anything about it?
- Why is it important for blood to move around the body?
- Can you think of something in your house or city that works like the circulatory system?
Parts of the Heart
Students learned about the anatomy and function of the heart. They identified the atria, ventricles, valves, and blood vessels and discussed how these parts work together to pump blood. We created a color-coded diagram to label each part!
Parent discussion questions:
- Can you name the parts of the heart and tell me what each one does?
- Why do you think the heart has valves? What would happen if they didn’t work?
- How does blood flow through the heart? Can you describe the pathway?
Blood 3D Model, Article Reading, Note-Taking & Inquiry-Based Discussion
Students read about blood, took notes, and discussed how blood works in the body. We created a 3D model of blood in a jar, which helped us identify parts like red blood cells and white blood cells.
Parent discussion questions:
- What did you find most interesting about blood in the article?
- What are the different parts of blood, and what does each part do?
- Why do you think it’s important to take good notes when reading? How does that help you learn?
Reflection Questions
Throughout the day, students engaged with deeper questions to explore and reflect on what they’ve learned.
Parent discussion questions:
- What questions about the circulatory system would you like to research more?
- How does understanding your body’s systems help you take better care of yourself?
- What surprised you the most about the circulatory system today?
Below are some great extension activities to try at home:
- DIY Pulse and Heart Rate Experiment
Have students find their pulse (wrist or neck) and measure their resting heart rate. Then, after doing a minute of jumping jacks or running in place, measure their heart rate again. Students can record the difference and discuss why their heart rate changes. - Build a Model of the Circulatory System
Using household items like red and blue yarn or string, paper straws, and balloons, students can create a simple model showing the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries. Label parts and explain the flow of blood (oxygen-rich vs. oxygen-poor). - Blood Flow Role-Play Game
Assign family members or friends roles as red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, or plasma. Set up a path through your home representing the circulatory system, with stations for oxygen exchange (lungs), nutrient delivery (body cells), and waste removal. Act out the journey of blood. - Create a Circulatory System Comic Strip
Students can write and draw a comic showing a red blood cell’s journey through the heart, lungs, and body with facts about oxygen transport and the heart’s chambers. - Heart Rate and Exercise Graphing
After measuring heart rate at rest and after different exercises (walking, running, jumping), students can create bar or line graphs to visualize their data. - Healthy Habits Poster
Students research and design a poster about how to keep the heart healthy (good diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking). They can include diagrams and fun facts. - Watch and Reflect on Circulatory System Videos
Find educational videos or animations about the circulatory system. Students take notes or answer guided questions afterward to reinforce learning.
I’m excited to see all of you tomorrow!