Digestive System Simulation Lab

Looking for a fun, gross (in the best way), and unforgettable way to teach your students about human digestion? This hands-on Digestive System Simulation Lab uses everyday materials to model how food moves through the digestive tract—from the mouth to the large intestine.

Perfect for middle and high school biology, this NGSS-aligned lab helps students visualize mechanical digestion, chemical digestion, nutrient absorption, and water reabsorption through a step-by-step simulation that mimics real-life digestion. It’s engaging, easy to implement, and one of those activities your students will talk about all year long.

Why Teachers Love This Lab:

• Super engaging and accessible for all learners
• Makes abstract concepts concrete and easy to understand
• Encourages scientific thinking with real-world application questions
• Great for hands-on learning, end-of-unit activities, or just an unforgettable digestion day

What’s Included:

• Printable student lab with background info, clear directions, and built-in discussion questions
• Full answer key with sample responses and teacher tips
• Extension ideas and differentiation options
• Clean-up tips for a smooth post-lab experience

What Students Will Learn:

• How mechanical and chemical digestion work together to break down foo
• The role of stomach acid in protein breakdown
• How nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine
• What happens to leftover waste in the large intestine
• How diet and digestive disorders impact this complex system

Hands-on Modeling with Common Supplies:
Students simulate digestion using plastic bags, crackers, bread, vinegar, water, paper towels, and nylon stockings (or cheesecloth). It’s tactile, visual, and surprisingly accurate for modeling real digestive processes—without the need for internet or high-tech tools!

Add this lab to your biology toolbox and give your students a gross, giggle-worthy, and genuinely effective way to learn how their bodies break down food.

⭐ Looking for quality resources and time-saving tips for your secondary science classroom?
☑ Follow Spectacular Science on TPT
☑ Subscribe to My Newsletter
☑ Check Out My Blog
☑ Follow Me on Instagram

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Thanks for visiting!
Jessica