I had the opportunity to educate the 6th grade science classes at Windemere Ranch Middle School in San Ramon this past week. With the help of the 6th grade science teachers, I performed 15 cow eye dissections over a 3 day period for 450 students. I went over the anatomy of the cow eye using a diagram that was passed out to each student before the dissection. This gave the students a good starting point and allowed them to follow along during the dissection. I also explained to them what I do as an optometrist including prescribing eyeglasses, contact lenses, and treat medical conditions of the eye. Many of the students were interested in becoming a doctor and it was great to see them engaged and asking great questions.
After the dissection was completed, I took the parts of the cow eye and went to each table to allow the students to touch and feel parts of the cow eye. Gloves were used of course! This was a fun way to increase their understanding on cow eye anatomy and function. At the end of the class, I gave out goody bags containing information pamphlets on eye conditions. The information included vision and learning, the effects of digital device use, and how to prevent nearsightedness or myopia from becoming worse. A eye chart included so the students could check their vision at home.
In summary, I had a wonderful time educating the students at Windemere Ranch Middle School. I would like to thank the 6th grade science teachers; Cynthia Sevin, Ellen Macleod, and Sue Lukito for allowing me to educate their students!
