Lesson 2: The Synaptic Gap (Chemical Communication)
Duration of Days: 4
Lesson Objective
Analyze transition from electrical to chemical signaling at the synapse.
How does a signal move between cells
How do chemicals influence behavior
Neurotransmitter, synapse, vesicle, reuptake, dopamine, serotonin
HS-LS1-2
Evidence-based reading on drug effects
Trace signal across synapse
Explain electrical to chemical transition
Purpose is understanding communication between neurons
DOK 2
Opioid crisis and neurotransmitters
Neurons touch directly
Fill-in flow charts
Visual sequence supports
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1siFIsOAs45CxuUlyJt9dNRdT70eTva14fJMeE1qXHPk/edit?tab=t.0
Neurotransmitter informational brochure
Skills Assessed
- Research and summarization
- Scientific communication
- Organizing information
- Explaining chemical signaling
Content Assessed
- Synapse structure
- Neurotransmitter release
- Reuptake
- Excitatory vs inhibitory signaling
- Dopamine and serotonin function
- Drug interactions with neurotransmitters