Fifth-grade science students at Laurel-Nokomis School rotated through classroom surgical suites, dressed in surgical attire, demonstrating knowledge of Florida science standards by identifying organs and their functions.They examined and enjoyed an edible model of the human integumentary system (skin) with Jell-O, marshmallows, fruit rolls, and licorice. Karen Senarens, fifth-grade teacher at Laurel-Nokomis, observed with delighted satisfaction that the project’s goal was being met with enthusiasm and curiosity.

“Providing students with an authentic, hands-on experience to learn about human body systems, organs and functions was my main goal, and I wanted to expose them to information about medical careers,” Senarens said. “In this project, students learned about the human body systems and what an operating room looks like and the roles the various medical staff play. They gained real world experience in wearing hospital gowns, masks and caps, and they studied organs of the human body in a fun and authentic way.

At-risk students flourished in this real-world simulation as they rotated with ‘charts’ in hand and helped each other find organs and document them within their ‘records.’” Senarens credits the $200 grant, awarded through the Education Foundation’s EducateSRQ teacher and classroom grant program, with helping her design more innovative approaches to lessons that increase motivation and impact critical-thinking skills. “Thank you, Education Foundation, for the profound impact that you make on the students of Sarasota County.”

We will be sharing a monthly column featuring EducateSRQ, the teacher and classroom grants signature program of The Education Foundation of Sarasota County.

Click here for more information on how to get involved.