In this activity students study a couple of eye reflexes. Not all of these are stimulated by vision. By walking through a series of steps, students investigate each reflex and speculate what might be causing them. A fun and engaging activity that requires no equipment!
 
Questions Answered:
How can you determine the stimulus for a specific reflex? 
Can an eye reflex be caused by a non-visual stimulus? 
 
Topics Addressed:
Reflexes are a nearly instantaneous response to a stimulus. 
Eye reflexes may or may not be caused by a visual stimulus. 
Reflexes can be studied to determine their stimulus
 
Materials Needed
a friend
 
Preparation Time
none
 
Teaching Time 
About 20–30 minutes, longer with included writing assignment
 
Answer Key
Yes! Plus extensive teacher notes address the many questions that come up. You shouldn’t have to do outside research on this topic unless you want to. Specific charts and graphic organizers have keys. 
 
Target Audience
Middle School Students, Ages 11-14
 
Student Sheets
Scaffolded writing prompts & lab reporting 
Diagrams for labeling