Cells to Polar Bears: 7th Graders Explore Science on a Large Scale!

Our 7th grade students took microscopic learning to the macro level with their study of polar bears!

After wrapping up their initial lessons on cell structures, Middle School Science Teacher Kate Fairless wanted her St. Mary’s students to see how eukaryotic cells differ based on their specialized functions.

Inspired by the lovable polar bear, Kate teamed up with South Campus Librarians Penny Bower and Molly Griffin, who provided resources on polar bear biology and evolution. With this foundation, students applied their understanding of cell functions to polar bears, even learning how to make scientific annotations.

In the Makerspace, with help from Applied Technology and Innovation Center Coordinator Meagan Michael, the girls brought their knowledge to life by creating three large-scale polar bear models, each showcasing unique cell structures vital to the polar bear’s survival.
Students presented these models in class, teaching their classmates about the cells they contributed to the designs.

"The 7th graders researched the basic life of a polar bear using scientific annotations and then focused on specialized eukaryotic cells, such as yellow fat cells and skeletal muscle cells," explained Mrs. Fairless. "They created 3D models of their particular cells while still incorporating important common organelles. The students then honed their presentation skills by teaching their classmates how their unique cells contributed to the overall survival of the polar bear."

The capstone experience in this learning adventure was a visit from a Memphis Zoo zoologist, who gave a custom presentation on polar bears for the 7th grade class!

"The girls enjoyed the creative hands-on component, which allowed them to form a true representation of what they were learning and connect their individual cells to a larger organism. Students then had the bonus of being able to ask Ms. Christa in-depth questions about not only the polar bear but other animals in the Memphis Zoo's care," said Mrs. Fairless. 

This project ignited students' curiosity about how cells function, so much so that they eagerly shared what they had learned with others while walking through the halls. It was a joy to see learning extend beyond the classroom and become a collaborative effort.

"Any time you can make connections within our Memphis community, it's a memorable experience," concluded Mrs. Fairless.

Thank you to our incredible faculty and staff members who made this experience happen, and thank you to our friends at the Memphis Zoo for visiting us on campus. It’s safe to say that the polar bear has left its paw print on St. Mary’s!