Single class period (< 90 mins)
In this concept map activity, students work in groups to piece together feedback loops that are part of or related to the endocrine system.
Before the activity, the instructor takes time choosing which students will work together. Groups are chosen based on individual student performance so that groups are well-rounded (e.g., someone who is good at presenting is paired with someone who is stronger at memorization).
Important: students aren't allowed to have notes; this exercise is done as a memory and synthesis exercise.
At the beginning of class, as students come in the door, they are given ...
Read More +In this concept map activity, students work in groups to piece together feedback loops that are part of or related to the endocrine system.
Before the activity, the instructor takes time choosing which students will work together. Groups are chosen based on individual student performance so that groups are well-rounded (e.g., someone who is good at presenting is paired with someone who is stronger at memorization).
Important: students aren't allowed to have notes; this exercise is done as a memory and synthesis exercise.
At the beginning of class, as students come in the door, they are given their group number. Students then get into their groups (4-6 students per group, with ~5 groups total). Students then choose three people in their group for the following roles:
The instructor randomly assigns feedback loops to each group.
Groups are then given 15 minutes to discuss and compile their notes and ideas on their specific feedback loop.
Once again, presentation order is randomly assigned.
The first group sends their spokesperson to the board. Using the group notes, this student draws out the feedback loop for which their group was responsible, and presents their rationale for the feedback loop to the class.
Once finished, the instructor takes a picture of the loop (for grading purposes), and then critiques the loop for the benefit of the entire class, making changes to the drawing where necessary.
This process continues until all groups have presented.
The instructor wraps up the activity by briefly summarizing the concept map of feedback loops, highlighting the connections between different loops, and answering any student questions. A picture of the concept map is taken and posted online for students as a study tool.
Students are graded as a group for their initial feedback loop (prior to in-class instructor critique).
Read Less -Students learn to work with a variety of students with different strengths, which reflects on their ability to work well in groups, something that will be important later on in their professional careers.
Students will learn not only to recall from memory (information about feedback loops), but how to synthesize and analyze information (putting together feedback loops, how they connect with other loops in/related to the endocrine system).
Published: 18/09/2018
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