Skin, the toughest part of the body, provides each person with multiple layers of protection from the outside world. Assist young scientists as they view the video segment and learn the differences in melanin production, leading to differences in skin pigmentation and color. They conclude with a discussion about the risks of overexposure to the outside elements and how to take proper precautions for a healthier lifestyle.

Concepts

skin, skin cancer, melanin, ultraviolet rays

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Have the class research various ethnicities and their geographical origin; discuss why these ethnicities might have lived in each part of the world and how skin color could have adapted to compensate for the sun's rays
• Provide a video on skin cancer and discuss consequences of too much sun exposure

Classroom Considerations

• Ensure everyone has adequate Internet access to complete activities in the lesson

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Presents an important topic in a clear and concise way for all learners to understand
• Allows the ability to expand or modify lesson based on class population

Cons

• None