Discover Stem Cells
An interactive stem cell lesson introducing key concepts in stem cell science to young students. The lesson is intended to be flexible and is made up of a set of short modules, mixing group activities with presentation and facilitator-led discussion.
- computer with PowerPoint
- facility to play film clip (no sound)
- internet connection or stop clock
- projector and screen or smartboard
- Method for sticking cards on wall, eg Blu-Tack
classroom arranged for group work
2 facilitators: scientists, science communicators or teachers
Audience prior knowledge
Assumes students know the body is made up of cells, and that blood contains red and white blood cells.
What people are saying about this resource
“From my point of view the experience was positive because, in addition to the discussion of the issue relating to stem cells, the aspect of cellular differentiation (a topic that is being discussed in higher classes) was also conveyed and, above all, the construction of this knowledge has come about through a process that makes students active subjects in the process of learning.”
Details and instructions
Discover stem cells is an easy-to-use lesson packed with games and group activities to engage young students with fundamental ideas in stem cell science. A PowerPoint presentation provides the core structure for the session, but the session is broken up into small modules with regular opportunities for students to explore concepts for themselves. This lesson includes the popular card game, Cell Families.
By the end of the session, students will:
- Know that a stem cell is a cell that can both self-renew and differentiate
- Know that there are different types of stem cells and be aware of where they are found
- Know why stem cells are important in the body
Download the PowerPoint slides and the pdf file called 'Lesson plan and print resources'. You then have everything you need for the lesson and its activites. The lesson plan gives a handy overview of the session and includes a checklist of the materials contained in the pdf that you need to print in advance. For detailed step-by-step guidance on delivering all aspects of Discover stem cells, see the facilitators notes in the PowerPoint presentation.
Order a pack of Cell Families cards
You can now order a print pack of Cell Families cards to use either as part of this lesson or as a stand-alone quick activity. Up to four players compete to collect families of cells, made up of one stem cell and three specialised cells it can produce. A great way to introduce tissue and embyronic stem cells, their roles and properties.