Today the idea that the brain is the central component of human function is generally understood, yet many mysteries
remain, particularly for children. Fortunately, recent advances in technology are allowing us to study the brain as
never before; through digital imaging techniques, scientists are able to watch the brain as it works. These techniques
provide tremendous opportunities for scientists, whose discoveries in turn create implications for medical doctors,
business leaders, educators, and parents - anyone, in fact, with any interest in the human condition and all of our
beautiful eccentricities. Many educators and researchers are looking at how this new information can assist us in the
classroom to be both better educators and learners. In reading the work of these researchers, one quickly becomes
aware of a recurring theme; that is, that current US education paradigms are not providing opportunities for our young
people to properly develop the minds, intelligences, and habits they will rely upon to be successful in the 21st
century. Consequently, this unit was developed to help students improve their understanding of how the brain works and
use "brain-compatible" learning strategies with the self-knowledge necessary to become better learners.
(Developed for Science, grade 4; recommended for Science, grades 3-6)
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