Living Bones, Strong Bones

Explorers need strong bones so they can face the physical challenges placed on their bodies while in space. The longer astronauts are in the environment of space, the more weak their bones become due to a lack of loading forces. Bones below the waist are most affected by reduced gravity environments, and the bones located in these areas are more likely to suffer bone loss during spaceflight. It is important for astronauts to train before, during, and after their flight in space to maintain strong bones all their lives. A diet including calcium and Vitamin D also helps astronauts maintain strong bones.

In this investigation, teams will identify ways to keep bones healthy, and observe the effects of reduced gravity on bone models. They will also observe and compare bones, and design bone models using index cards to hold weight.

Mission Question

How can I make a bone model that is strong and will hold weight?

Skills

Scientific Methodology, Communication, Problem-solving, Teamwork

Learning Objectives

Observe bones, and compare bone size relative to the living being in which the bones are found
Design a bone model, then compare and contrast the weight bearing capacity of their bone model, making inferences about bone structure, weight-bearing bones, and the effects of different environments on those bones

Equipment

Per class:
- meter stick
- balance scale
- gram weights
Per group:
- two snack size zipper-seal bags
- one cooked, clean, dry chicken thigh or leg bone
- centimeter ruler
- five index cards (7.6 x 12.7 cm or 3 x 5 in)
- clear cellophane tape
- cardboard square (approx. 24 x 24 cm or 9.4 x 9.4 in)
- textbooks or reams of paper
- enough aquarium gravel to fill a snack size zipper-seal bag to 1/3 full
Per student:
- Living Bones, Strong Bones Student Section
- safety glasses or goggles
- red pen
- hand lens