Super Anatomy Resource

As a teaching tool that supplements instruction and discussion, this is the tool to use in the upper elementary classroom. I wouldn’t recommend the app if you wanted something self directed,as it lends itself to discussion. Used as an extension to a small group or whole group lesson and discussion, this app will help tremendously. It enables the student to focus on the systems and organs as well as giving them hands on experience with each in a “cartoonish” way. This interaction helps make it easier for students that might have weak stomachs and may have a rough time dealing with real images. It also engages students in the effects of outside variables (as well as internal) like different foods, tactile stimulants, and virus and bacteria. Students can also label the differents parts of the systems and organs assisting in the understanding of where things are in your body. However, there is no explanation as to what the organs do. There is the ability to record audio notes within the application, which provides an effective assessment or it be used as a student's own science journal. The notes can’t be exported, but will be saved under the student's account. Speaking of the student account… On the home screen of the app there is a “+” and the student needs to create an account. This is just an “in app” account and isn’t linked to anything online. Students need to select their gender, a background color and name, and they will be ready to take advantage of the app. Each time they return to the app that account will be saved as will any audio notes that have been recorded. My overall impression of the app is good, and if you were going to use it to help guide instruction, then I would recommend it because it carries the $3.99 price tag. It’s not one for simple “sit and get”.

The Human Body app provides a great deal of information about how the human body works, the names of different body parts, and a breakdown of what each system (e.g., nervous system, skeletal system) looks like up close. I think it's a great teaching tool for students who have already had some exposure to the human body or for students who are looking to learn through play and open-ended exploration. I liked that the different parts responded to interaction via the device, for example if you're talking while exploring the ear, it will be repeated back as if the ear "heard" you and something similar happens with the eye. I also appreciate the ability to see what happens in various areas when food is put into the body, such as the teeth or the stomach. The ability to change the body's response based on whether it's standing, walking, or running is also valuable. I wish there was an introductory tutorial though and more audio prompts or instructions when you first change to a new body part or system because it can be very confusing for students to try and figure out what to do or even how to navigate the screen.

Very simple but elegant app takes students into the human body to see it at work. Nothing gross or overly realistic but a gentle introduction to body systems. It's not going to teach them deep knowledge, but it is another tool to encourage exploration of the human body. I also like that it allows for customization (girl/boy, etc) and has some interactive elements such as the heart beats faster when the character is running.