Muscular System Station Lab - MS

This student-led, modular station lab engages middle school students in exploring the muscular system. Students will learn to identify its primary functions and describe the properties and characteristics of different types of muscles. With multimodal input and output stations, the lab encourages independent and collaborative learning, while teachers act as facilitators, making this a low-prep, high-engagement resource for anatomy and body systems lessons.

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 core activities plus one enrichment station for early finishers

• Differentiated to meet diverse needs—scaffolded reading passages and tasks for remediation, extension opportunities for advanced learners

• Includes station signage, readings, task cards, and resources to support independent or group learning

• The Explore It! station may require a few common classroom supplies already available in most labs

Station Breakdown

Input Stations (building knowledge):

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

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

• Research It! – Web-based activity with facts, images, and graphs paired with guided questions

• Watch It! – Short video with comprehension prompts

Output Stations (demonstrating knowledge):

• Organize It! – Sorting/categorization activities with manipulatives or digital tools

• Illustrate It! – Sketching/drawing models of the muscular system to reinforce retention

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

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

Bonus Station:

• Challenge It! – Crosswords, games, puzzles, or mini-projects for enrichment or early finishers

Flexible Implementation

This lab is designed for both in-person and virtual learning. Files are fully 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.