This lesson plans encourages students to perform in-depth research on the subject. After outlining the different types of joints, divide the class into groups. Each group will be responsible for creating a presentation for the class that thoroughly describes one type of joint, complete with visual aides and models where possible. For example, one group will analyze ball and socket joints by describing how they function, where they are located and providing a drawing or print-out of the joint that demonstrates where it is located in the body, such as in the shoulder.
For visual learners, few lesson plans are more helpful than those that rely on constructing models. This lesson can be appropriate for all age levels; younger students will appreciate the act of learning through play while others will get to hone their sculpting skills. Have students sculpt models out of clay using tools such as toothpicks and pencils and yarn to illustrate the look of the joints. The joint models do not have to be functional; just descriptive.
Understanding the different types of joints is necessary, as is locating them on the human body. For this lesson, students can make models of the skeleton in different ways. For example, they could sculpt them from clay as in the previous lesson. Another option would be to make skeletons out of paper and using metal brads to demonstrate movement in the joints. After the skeleton model is constructed, label the location of the joints to indicate what type is being used.
Memorization is often necessary in anatomy lessons. Creating mnemonic devices that illustrate the concept of movable joints can be a beneficial lesson, especially for preschool and elementary-aged students. For example, one lesson could be a variation on the "Head, Shoulder, Knees and Toes" song which uses the same beat and the same practice of pointing to the areas on the body by identifying the location of the joints and singing them to the same beat as the original song.
This lesson plan will help put the purpose for joints in perspective. Based on the information you provide about the different types of joints, quiz the class on why they are necessary. For example, you could ask "What joint do we use to run when playing soccer?" The answer would be a hinge joint, located in the knee and used for flexion and extension. Another question would be "Which joint do we use to give a thumbs up?" The answer would be a saddle joint. Repeat this process for understanding.