In this lesson plan which is adaptable for grades 4-12, students use BrainPOP resources (including primary sources) to learn about Cystic Fibrosis.

Students will:

  1. Understand the causes and symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis.
  2. Read and analyze a primary source document from an individual living with Cystic Fibrosis.

Materials:

  • Computer with internet access for BrainPOP
  • Interactive whiteboard/LCD projector
  • Class set of photocopies for any printables used during the lesson

Lesson Procedure:

  1. Show students the Graphs and Stats on the Related Reading page. Do students know anyone with Cystic Fibrosis? You may want to click on the Real Life tab and show students an example of a person who is living with the disease.
  2. Pass out copies of the Graphic Organizer to help students take notes during the movie. Or, if students have access to their own individual computers, they may choose type directly into the page.
  3. Play the Cystic Fibrosis movie through once without stopping, and a second time while pausing at key points so that students can complete the graphic organizer.
  4. Have students explore the topic in-depth through the Primary Source Activity. Tell students they will be reading blog posts from a teenage girl who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when she was eight years old.
  5. Encourage students to use the Primary Source as a springboard for planning a Cystic Fibrosis fundraiser. How might students make a difference in their community for individuals whose lives have been impacted by the disease? How might they help raise money to help research a cure?