Nervous System Activity Reaction Time Lab

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Even if your students aren’t driving yet, they will be soon – and this is a lesson they’ll remember! This reaction time activity shows kids how being distracted affects their ability to react.

In this activity, students will:

• READ a background section to learn about the dangers of texting and driving. They’ll also learn that reacting takes time because messages have to travel from neuron to neuron through the nervous system.
• Make a HYPOTHESIS about how being distracted (or not) affects reaction time.
• Follow a SIMPLE PROCEDURE using only rulers to test their reaction time and a partner’s reaction time. They’ll collect data as they do this non-distracted and also distracted.
• ANSWER follow-up questions.
• Make a CLAIM based on EVIDENCE about texting affecting reaction time.

NGSS Standards:

• MS-LS1-3 and MS-LS1-8
• Science & Engineering Practice: Planning and carrying out investigations

Teacher Notes:

• Supplies needed: one ruler per pair of students
• This activity is done in pairs.
• INCLUDES ANSWER KEY
• Please note: This resource is NOT editable.
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