Twelve everyday actions are sorted by brain part on this 3-page 5th grade science sheet. On page 1 students read actions such as solving a math problem, riding a bike and breathing while asleep, then write each one in a chart under cerebrum, cerebellum or brain stem. Page 2 asks why the skull protects the brain and how a helmet helps the nervous system. Page 3 lists the four correct actions for each column and gives sample answers to both questions.
4-LS1-2
“Use a model to describe that animals receive different types of information through their senses, process the information in their brain, and respond to the information in different ways.”
The sort links the senses and thinking to the cerebrum, balance to the cerebellum, and automatic actions to the brain stem.
A box of twelve actions and a three-column chart. Each column has a short hint under its heading, such as thinking, memory and senses.
Two written questions, one about the skull and one about helmets, beside a photo of a student with a bike and a helmet.
The sorted chart with four actions in each column, plus model answers to both questions.
Sort as cards
Cut the twelve actions into slips and let pairs sort them on a desk first. Then they copy their final choices into the chart.
Hardest to place
Ask each student to pick the action they found hardest to place and explain the choice to a partner. The talk shows who understands the three jobs.
Safety link
Use page 2 as a short safety talk before a bike or playground unit. Ask students to name other times they should protect their head.
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