Alabama Social Studies SS24.P.5a

Social StudiesGrades 9–12Biological Basis of Psychology

The Standard

SS24.P.5: Describe the structure, biochemistry, and circuitry of the brain and nervous system, and explain their roles in human behavior and mental processes.*

Describe communication between neurons and the electrochemical process, including the role of neurotransmitters in behavior.*

2024 Alabama Course of Study: Social Studies · Biological Basis of Psychology

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students trace a signal through two neurons. They explain how an electrical impulse travels along an axon, then neurotransmitters carry the message across the gap to another neuron.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can label the axon, synapse, and receptors in a sketch of two neurons. They can explain how a change in neurotransmitter signaling might change a person's behavior.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think neurons touch or that electricity crosses the gap between them. They may also think every neurotransmitter makes the next neuron fire.
How to Assess It: Give students a blank sketch of two neurons. Ask them to draw the path of a signal and explain how blocking receptors could affect a person's response.

Lesson moves

Use yarn for axons and paper slips for neurotransmitters; have students pass a signal between two taped neuron outlines.
Ask students to write why a signal needs both an electrical impulse and chemical messengers to reach the next neuron.
Give pairs cards labeled axon, synapse, neurotransmitter, and receptor; have them race to put the cards in signal order.
Show a caffeine label and ask students how blocking adenosine receptors could make someone feel less sleepy.

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