Respiratory System Station Lab - MS

This student-led, modular station lab engages middle school students in exploring the organs and processes of the respiratory system. Students will learn to identify the key structures that make up the respiratory system and understand how respiration functions to bring oxygen into the body and remove carbon dioxide. With multimodal input and output stations, this activity provides a differentiated and engaging learning experience while allowing teachers to act as facilitators rather than directors—making it a low-prep, high-impact lesson.

Note for Texas teachers: This resource aligns with the 2017 TEKS and will not be updated for the 2021 standards.

Structure & Differentiation

• Nine total stations: eight differentiated core activities plus one enrichment station for early finishers

• Differentiated design supports all learners—scaffolded passages and tasks for remediation, extension opportunities for advanced students

• Includes station signage, task cards, readings, and resources for easy setup and smooth implementation

• The Explore It! station may require a few simple materials you likely already have on hand

Station Breakdown

Input Stations (building knowledge):

• Explore It! – Hands-on demonstration; digital version includes interactive activities in PowerPoint or Google Slides

• Read It! – Differentiated passages (English & Spanish) with vocabulary and comprehension checks

• Research It! – Guided online activity with facts, images, and structured student questions

• Watch It! – Short video with comprehension prompts

Output Stations (demonstrating knowledge):

• Organize It! – Categorization and sorting activities using manipulatives or digital tools

• Illustrate It! – Sketching/drawing respiratory system structures to reinforce retention

• Write It! – Short-answer prompts requiring complete sentences

• Assess It! – Task cards and vocabulary-in-context activities to measure mastery

Bonus Station:

• Challenge It! – Crosswords, puzzles, games, and mini-projects for enrichment or advanced learners

Flexible Implementation

This lab is fully adaptable for in-class or virtual instruction. Files are compatible with PowerPoint and Google Slides, making them simple to use in blended or online classrooms.

This is a finished product; it will be updated with formatting or corrections as needed. Future improvements and new features will be sold as a separate product.