Weary flesh?
In the captivating world of science, understanding why our muscles tire after intense activity is a question that sparks curiosity. The 2015 Connected article, "Why do our muscles get tired?", written by Zoe Armstrong and Dave Armstrong, delves into this intriguing topic, providing an engaging exploration of muscle fatigue.
The article follows the statistical enquiry cycle, a systematic approach to investigating and understanding complex phenomena. It begins by presenting the question, "Why do our muscles get tired?", and then proceeds to gather, interpret, and critically evaluate data to find answers.
The learning activities in this article are designed to be both educational and enjoyable. Students can practice movement skills by conducting a 'Fittest Fingers' investigation of their own, using a simple tool like a clothes peg. This hands-on approach encourages creative and enjoyable physical activity, making learning an engaging experience.
The article also supports learning across multiple curriculum areas, including Literacy, Science - Living World, Nature of Science and science capabilities, Mathematics and statistics, and Health and physical education. It communicates findings based on data, using visual language features to create meaning and enhance understanding.
In addition to the written article, the Connected series offers teacher support materials, a Student worksheet, and an audio narration, all available online. For those who prefer a more auditory learning experience, an audio recording of the article is also available.
One of the most captivating aspects of the article is the video of the Samoan sasa, a traditional dance that demonstrates the power and complexity of human muscle function. This visual element brings the scientific concepts to life, making learning more engaging and memorable.
The Connected series, published annually by the Ministry of Education, New Zealand, is renowned for its high-quality educational resources. The article "Why do our muscles get tired?" can be accessed using Google Slides or a pdf, making it accessible to students working at NZC level 2 and above.
The article also includes a word search activity with words related to the topic, offering an enjoyable way for students to reinforce their learning. Furthermore, it discusses how living things have certain requirements to stay alive, tying the concept of muscle fatigue to the broader context of biology.
In conclusion, the 2015 Connected article "Why do our muscles get tired?" is an excellent resource for students looking to explore the fascinating world of muscle fatigue. By following the statistical enquiry cycle, practicing movement skills, and engaging with captivating visuals, students can gain a deeper understanding of this complex physiological process.
For those interested in ordering the Connected journals, they can be found on the Down the Back of the Chair website. Join the journey of discovery and delve into the world of muscle fatigue today!
The article "Why do our muscles get tired?" extends learning beyond the topic of muscle fatigue, encompassing various curriculum areas such as health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and science. It encourages students to engage in a 'Fittest Fingers' investigation, which is a form of fitness-and-exercise that also aligns with the science concept of muscle function. Furthermore, it provides a word search activity related to the topic, linking it to language arts or literacy, thereby promoting health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and science concurrently.
