Beneath the Surface: The Art and Science of Anatomy

Brentwood can be described as a place to learn, create, collaborate, and innovate. These values are brought to life daily in Mr Miller’s Anatomy and Physiology classroom. 

Throughout the year, Anatomy students have been working hard to learn about the different parts of the human body. Beginning with the complexities of the nervous system, we have recently progressed into exploring the intricacies of the circulatory system. This class is like no other as it combines conceptual knowledge with hands-on learning, allowing students to connect abstract ideas to real-world applications. Through deep discussions, detailed dissections, and engaging activities, students have gained a passion for uncovering the wonders of our systems. 

Elena F, Hope ‘25 shares that she is “always thrilled to go to class because we truly learn something new every day”. Mr Miller has fostered an empowering environment to allow students to dive deeper into the body's parts and functions. 

At the beginning of the year, while learning about the nervous system, the class participated in a sheep brain dissection. This was the first experience for many, and Maren S, Alexandra ‘25 says that she “would be thrilled to do this again”. 

Ewe’d have to admit, it wasn’t a baaaaaaaad experience.

Recently, the class took part in a sheep heart dissection that allowed students to look at the contents of the heart. Cleo K, Allard ‘25 says “Although I had to get past the idea of a dissection, this was an amazing experience and I learned so much.” The class cannot wait for more hands-on learning in the future. 

Mr Miller is deeply passionate about the art of anatomy and ensures his classroom environment reflects that. He shares that “​​I see it as being like an owner's manual - it is better to understand how the systems work and are integrated to give the body the flexibility it needs to accommodate its changing needs. We are working through the circulatory system now and students are no longer struggling with looking for blood cells in veins - they are also looking in arteries.” 

Ruby M, Allard ‘25