Materials

• NIDA Junior Scientists videotape and VCR, or online video
• One set of signs for each group
  • 6 Neuron Team signs
  • 1 Neurotransmitter sign
  • 1 Sore foot sign
  • 1 Brain sign
• One set of messages for each group
  • 1 “Why does my foot hurt?” message
  • 1 “Sit down. You hurt your foot on a tack.” message
• Instruction Sheet (PDF, 95KB)
• Log Sheet (PDF, 42KB)
• Activity Sheet (PDF, 85KB)
• Paper and pencils
• Masking Tape

Preparation

1. To familiarize yourself with the subject of neurotransmission, read the Background section of this guide.
2. If possible, reserve the gym or all-purpose room. Or you could do this activity outside on the blacktop.
3. Make copies of the messages and signs (Activity Sheet - PDF, 85KB) found at the bottom of this page. You will need six Neuron Team signs, one Neurotransmitter sign, one Sore Foot sign, one Brain sign, one “Why does my foot hurt?” message, and one “Sit down. You hurt your foot on a tack.” message for each group. The students will use these messages during the activity.
4. Set up and label three areas of the room for this activity as shown on the previous page. Each area has a set of two lines of masking tape with a space between the rows. Each masking tape row represents a neuron. The space between “neurons” represents a synapse.
5. Divide the class into groups of nine students, who will be working together as a team. If you have “extra” children, add them as extra members of a neuron team.