Lesson Plan

• Describe the complete sequence of events from neuromuscular‑junction activation to cross‑bridge cycling.
• Explain how the T‑tubule system transmits the action potential to the sarcoplasmic reticulum.
• Illustrate the role of the sarcoplasmic reticulum in calcium release and re‑uptake during contraction and relaxation.
• Compare the functions of DHPR and RyR receptors in excitation‑contraction coupling.
• Apply knowledge to accurately label a diagram of a skeletal muscle fibre showing the NMJ, T‑tubules and SR.

• Projector and screen
• PowerPoint slides summarising NMJ, T‑tubules & SR
• Printed hand‑outs with a labelled muscle‑fibre diagram
• Whiteboard and markers
• Student worksheets for labeling activity
• Clickers or Kahoot for a quick formative quiz

Begin with a striking image of a sprinting athlete and ask, “What makes those muscles contract so quickly?” Briefly revisit students’ prior knowledge of neuron‑muscle signalling and the role of acetylcholine. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to trace the exact pathway from the neuromuscular junction to muscle contraction and identify each structure’s contribution.

1. Do‑Now (5’): Students write, in bullet form, everything they know about how a motor neuron triggers muscle movement.
2. Mini‑lecture with slides (10’): Teacher explains the NMJ, T‑tubule system, and sarcoplasmic reticulum, highlighting key molecules (ACh, nAChR, DHPR, RyR, SERCA).
3. Paired diagram‑labeling activity (10’): Using the printed hand‑out, students label the NMJ, T‑tubules, triad, and SR, then compare answers.
4. Guided walkthrough (5’): Teacher narrates the 9‑step sequence of events, prompting students to point to the diagram as each step occurs.
5. Formative quiz (Kahoot) (5’): Quick multiple‑choice questions on each component’s function.
6. Summary & Exit Ticket (5’): Students write one thing they mastered and one lingering question; teacher collects for next lesson.

Recap the chain of events linking the neuromuscular junction to calcium‑driven contraction, emphasizing how the T‑tubules ensure rapid signal spread and how the SR controls calcium levels. Collect exit tickets as a retrieval check and assign homework: read the textbook section on excitation‑contraction coupling and complete the accompanying worksheet.