Last year, I created the Insane in the Membrane Game, and after using it with my students, I took their feedback to heart—just like most teachers do—and made a few key improvements! I'm excited to share the updated version of the game with you, along with tips on how to set it up and play it with your own students. It’s been a huge success, and while I don't have a lot of action shots (thanks to a dead phone!), trust me—it was a hit! When and how does it fit into a Biology curriculum?I teach from micro to macro, so Cell Structure & Function is the second unit of the year. My lessons follow this sequence:
That's why I created the Insane in the Membrane game. In this activity, students physically move molecules across their cell membrane game board, practicing these concepts repeatedly. This hands-on experience helps solidify their understanding and transfer the material into long-term memory. The follow-up questions reinforce key standards while reviewing the structures and functions of the cell membrane from the previous lesson. Materials and PreparationThis lab does require a little bit more prep the first year because the playing cards for each group need to be printed, laminated (optional), and cut. Once that is done, each group of four students will have the following materials:
I do think it's important for you to read through the Insane in the Membrane Directions below prior to the day of the game. It's definitely not hard or complicated! The student who reaches equilibrium in all four molecules first wins. The Day Of...This lab activity will take students roughly 40-60 minutes to complete. Each group should have the materials already set out and ready to go (this will help cut down on time!). Here is the breakdown:
Pre-Activity and Board Set-up
Here are the Directions...Playing the GameI personally go over the gist of the game with them. It only takes a minute to explain. They always get a hang of it within the first 5 minutes of playing. Last year I played this game "Candy Crush style." Students would pull one card out of the bag at a time and follow the directions. For the most part - it was just the luck of the draw. Student feedback was that they wished there was some sort of strategy. This year I made the game more "Uno-style." This means students always have 5 cards in their hand and they can choose which of the 5 cards to play and when. This went WAAAAAAAY better. Sometimes I have students And that's basically it! Students answer the post-lab questions (which you can modify). Let me know how your students liked the game and don't hesitate to contact me with any feedback or questions at [email protected]. Have fun! Links to this product and related products...
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