62: The eye (anatomy)

1) DRAWING LESSON

75 minutes

In this drawing we will learn all the major parts of the eye. “Anatomy” means learning what the parts look like and what they are called. The next lesson will do more “physiology” which is now those parts work.

Template for drawing 62

Info page for drawing 62

Sample of final drawing 62

2) ACTIVITIES

Activity 62-1: Make a paper model of the eye

The patterns and directions for this model are posted in the freedownloads on this website. But here is a quick link you can use: https://ellenjmchenry.com/cut-and-assemble-paper-model-of-the-human-eye/

Activity 62-2: Give yourself an eye exam

You can find online eye exams that you can do on your computer. Of course, the tests will first tell you that you can’t rely on these tests for accurate diagnosis of eye problems. They tell you to go to an eye doctor for official diagnosis. However, the online eye tests are fun to take and they can let you know about eye issues you might not have been aware of. Various tests include acuity (testing if you can see very small letters), astigmatism (imperfections in the shape of your cornea), light sensitivity, and the color blind test. Usually the tests are posted on websites where companies are selling eyeglasses and contacts. I am not recommending or endorsing any of these websites, just posting the ones that have the most user-friendly eye tests.

https://www.essilor.com/en/vision-tests/test-your-vision/

http://www.eyeexamonline.com/

Here is one you can print out and put on the wall: http://www.allaboutvision.com/eye-test/snellen-chart.pdf

Activity 62-3: Dissect an eye (VERY OPTIONAL)

Some people really like dissecting things. If you’ve been wanting to dissect a cow or sheep eye, this would be the time to do it! Science supply stores sell preserved eyes, but you can sometimes find fresh ones if you live near a butcher shop and you ask in advance so they know to save one. If you don’t want to actually do a dissection yourself but would like to see what it looks like, just out of curiosity, you can check out these links:

A 3-minute cow eye dissection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fve8AQ5laYw

Cow eye dissection by the Exploratorium: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0rbCrJoTatE