The spirit of discovery was alive at Marion Math, Science & Technology Magnet this week as third graders celebrated “Shark Week,” an annual event that culminated Thursday morning with a hands-on shark dissection.
With Marion High School students and parent volunteers guiding the way, the third graders got an up-close look at shark anatomy, using the science concepts they’ve been building on since the start of the school year.
Examining the sharks’ internal organs brought their biology lessons to life. Students saw firsthand how a shark’s body is built, and they came away with a better understanding of the role these predators play in keeping ocean ecosystems in balance.
The project reflects MST’s commitment to integrating STEM learning at every grade level. Dissection projects are planned throughout the year for nearly every grade:
First grade: owl pellets
Second grade: frogs
Third grade: sharks
Fourth grade: pig hearts
Fifth grade: squid
Sixth grade: whole pigs
Kindergarteners will not take part in dissections, but they will have their own hands-on experiences exploring the life cycles of butterflies and chicks.
The Marion School District is an innovative and growing district that ensures an equitable, engaging learning community where every student is empowered to achieve academic excellence and personal growth. With more than 150 years of experience serving families in Crittenden County, the district offers a high school, a junior high, a seventh grade academy, and three award-winning magnet schools. For enrollment information, including information on school choice, visit https://www.msd3.org/ or call 870-739-5100.