Students examine the cell coats (matrix) of chondrocytes and fibroblasts and observe these cells actively exclude particles which are released around them. They observe the function of the cell membrane as a gatekeeper as it prevents...

In this reading for information instructional activity, students read a detailed one page text about cells of the human body. Students answer 5 comprehension and 5 vocabulary questions.

Students discover fluid dynamics related to buoyancy through experimentation and optional photography. Using one set of fluids, they make light fluids rise through denser fluids. Using another set, they make dense fluids sink through a...

Eighth graders begin the lesson by building a house of cards. They discuss ways that building a house of cards is similar to the way the body is built: different systems work together to help the whole body work together. Students listen...

Students identify and interpret the importance and diversity of the insect world. Students organize various insects into a classification system based on their characteristics. Students create tree or window ornaments utilizing their...

Students explore food chains. In this ecosystem activity, students discover how plants and animals rely on each other for survival. Students research the rocky shore ecosystem and create a skit representing the ecosystem.

Students grow flowers in different soil mediums to determine the effect on flavor.  In this investigative instructional activity students study flowers, plant them and taste them to see how they differ in different potting soils. 

Students examine bone fractures and the role that engineers play in repairing them.  In this biomedical engineering lesson plan students describe the factors that engineers consider when designing devices. 

The term tissue is used to describe a group of cells found together in the body. Although there are many types of cells in the human body, they are organized into four broad categories of tissues: epithelial, connective, muscle, and...

Proteoglycans are a type of protein that help in maintaining the integrity of connective tissue. Their chemical structure is quite complex and is explained here with the aid of labeled illustrations. Their functions in the support of...

Self-guided learning activity where students learn about cell structure and function, different types of tissues, and various kinds of membranes in the body. There is a short quiz at the end of the lesson to check for understanding.

In this investigation, students will observe slides of unknown tissues and then draw their observations in a science notebook. They will then work in groups to reach a consensus as to the classification of tissues. This lesson is...

Reference sheet providing colorful illustrations of the different cell types that make up tissues.

Facts about four basic types of tissues in the human body and their functions.

Thorough overview of rheumatoid arthritis. Includes information on symptoms, prevention, treatment, and much more.

This game is suited for students previous knowledge involving the body tissues, specially connective and muscular. After playing this game students may proceed to investigate more about the other types of tissues: Epithelial and Nervous...

Wikipedia provides this encyclopedia article about collagen and its purpose in the human body.