CIE 14.1 The Reflex Arc

This lesson outlines the reflex arc in detail. The starts with a revisit to the three main types of neurones and students are then asked to investigate reflex actions, using torches (eye), and rulers on the knee and ankles. This leads to a discussion about how reflex actions are fast responses to stimuli and how this leads to survival in terms of evolution. The PPT shows the stages of the reflex arc and in the resources section there are alternative / additional activities that can be used depending on the learning styles of the class. For example, there are word cards that can be printed and students are given a word and they have to arrange themselves in the correct order of the reflex arc. There is also a cut and stick activity, if required. The lesson concludes with a revisit to the stages and students need to outline the stages of the reflex in the leg.