Constructing the Brainstem

activity type

• 3D Model (e.g., 3D printing, virtual)
• Game
• Small Group activity (define recommended group size in full description of activity)

Learning Objectives

1. Identify various structures at different levels of the brainstem listed in the word bank.
2. Identify orientation and location of pyramidal tracts, medial lemniscus, and spinothalamic tract at different levels of the brainstem.

Instructions

1. Students will divide into groups with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 per group.
2. Each group is given 4 images, a list of items (word bank) they need to identify, and some supplies (3 different color markers and scissors).
3. There are 3 tracts that need to be colored (pyramidal tracts; medial lemniscus, spinothalamic tract) and structures that need to be numbered in each image.
4. After identifying the structures, cut the images on the black line (which is drawn one centimeter surrounding the images) and fold on the red line (which is drawn at the left and right of the images).
5. Assemble the images in ascending order (caudal to rostral) using the provided supplies (2 pieces of foam and 8 (two per image) toothpicks).
6. Optional: different color yarn can be used to connect the tracts internally.
7. Each group will share what they have identified/learned from one of the images.

Instructor Preparation

The instructor needs to print the drawings for each group and provide supplies. An instructor copy with labeled structures for each section is also provided.

Materials and Software Requirements

Each group of students will need the following:

1. Printout of the images
2. scissors
3. red, green, blue markers
4. two pieces of foam
5. toothpicks
6. optional: yarn