YWIB-Philadelphia Metro at STEM Saturday: Exploring Anatomy

On Saturday, October 18, OIC of America and volunteers from YWIB-Philadelphia Metro welcomed K–8 students and their families to a free, immersive STEM experience at the Gift of Life Donor Program in Philadelphia. The event invited dozens of young learners and their parents to step into a world of interactive science and hands-on learning focused on the human body and how it functions. Throughout the day, students explored engaging modules on various anatomical systems. In one activity, they examined the respiratory system, learning how the lungs work and how external factors can impact breathing. In another, students measured their heart rate and pulse to see firsthand how physical activity affects the cardiovascular system. They also participated in a build-and-identify challenge centered on the spinal column, discovering how its structure facilitates movement. Additionally, students constructed model hands to explore how bones, tendons, and muscles work together and created fingerprint patterns to appreciate the uniqueness of human skin.

STEM Saturdays are held on the 3rd Saturday of every other month and are designed to build pathways into STEM for younger students by welcoming families to participate together. Providing elementary and middle schoolers with tangible, engaging experiences helps demystify science and makes learning approachable. 

Submitted by Theresa Austria