The Rockdale Junior High 7th grade science class conducted an “Effects of Vaping Lab” last week. Students had just wrapped up a unit on cell cycle, cell organelles, mitochondria and functions as well as the 11 body systems and their functions. Students were able to experience the learning of cells and cell functions along with saying “no to vaping.” They were engaged, answering higher level thinking questions and eager to see the results of this real-life experiment. First, students began by identifying the parts of a microscope and were confident on how to use one. Students began their task by looking at living and moving cell cultures through the microscope. Students then identified certain cell organelles such as the vacuole and nucleus.
Next, a drop of vaping liquid was placed on the cells on the slide. Students observed the cells in the microscope once again and discussed what was happening to the cells and why. At this point students reviewed the cell cycle and cell theory and were amazed that the cells were going through the cell cycle much more quickly than normal. Students pointed out that cells were clustering together as they attempted osmosis which another student answered is the transfer of f luids from one cell to another and within each cell.
Students noted that the cells were moving more slowly and some were beginning to shrink in size. Others explained it was because they were losing water. Students were asked to observe the cells two more times. They continued to see the cells slow down and eventually stop.
The class had a discussion on how this pertains to the body, organs such as the lungs along with other systems. Students mentioned how the respiratory and circulatory systems work together to keep us breathing and blood pumping. Students could see first-hand the harmful effects of vaping.
Students said that our lungs become like sponges when you vape. Students showed a high interest in the lab and were amazed at how “crazy it is” that cells can die more quickly when harmful substances are introduced into your body. It was an amazing review and a great way to end Red Ribbon Week.
Ms. Kinley Mueller is our 7th and 8th grade science teacher; she is a 2017 Rockdale High School graduate and is making real-life connections with our students and allowing them to experience their learning through hands-on investigations. The company that supplied the materials for the vape lab was ASSET.
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