Indiana Science HS-PS13-5

ScienceGrades 9–12Physical Science

The Standard

Describe the stages of embryonic development after gastrulation, up to the birth of a baby.

Indiana Academic Standards for Science (2023) · Life Cycle, the Reproductive System

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students describe what happens after gastrulation, from neural tube and organ formation through fetal growth and birth. They explain how the placenta supplies oxygen and nutrients before birth.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can put neural tube formation, organ formation, fetal growth, and birth in order. They can explain that major organ structures form during the embryonic period, then grow and mature during the fetal period.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think organs start forming only after the fetal period begins. They may also think a fetus breathes air through its lungs before birth.
How to Assess It: Exit ticket: Put neural tube formation, organ formation, fetal growth, and birth in order. Write one change at each step and explain how the fetus gets oxygen.

Lesson moves

Give groups four stage cards to arrange on a paper timeline, then have them draw one visible change at each step.
Ask students to write a reply to someone who says a fetus breathes air before birth, explaining the placenta's role.
Give pairs shuffled cards showing neural tube formation, organ development, fetal lung maturation, and birth; have them order the cards and justify their choices.
Read a mock 20-week ultrasound report and circle the organ checks, then underline measurements used to track fetal growth.

Keep exploring

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