Woodpeckers withstand more than 4,000 Gs without getting a concussion, yet humans only withstand up to 300 without getting one. An eye-opening video explains the difference in anatomy between humans and woodpecker brains as part of a larger playlist covering biology concepts. It describes what a concussion is, how it occurs, and the limits humans can handle. Then, it explains the theories and facts about woodpeckers and if scientists can apply any of this to prevent human concussions.

Concepts

wood, the brain, animal adaptations

Show More Show Less

Additional Tags

science

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Invite a sports medicine doctor to discuss preventing concussions and symptoms
• If scholars haven't seen a woodpecker in nature, share a video before watching the science behind it

Classroom Considerations

• Relies on some prior knowledge of the texture and positioning of human brains

• This video is hosted on YouTube

Pros

• Links science, nature, and sports
• Includes subtitles for ease of note taking
• Provides many resources for further learning

Cons

• None

Common Core

SL.6.2 SL.7.2 SL.8.2 SL.9-10.2 SL.11-12.2 RST.6-8.4 RST.9-10.4 RST.11-12.4