A researcher at the University of Vermont is exploring the connection between acupuncture and connective tissue in the human body. Helene Langevin, M.D., is a professor of neurology at UVM. Her research is applying scientific analysis to acupuncture and revealing new information about the function and importance of connective tissue to our overall health - and unveiling secrets about how acupuncture actually works. The episode profiles a Vermont resident who suffers from scleroderma, a connective tissue disorder.

Classroom Connections

Episode Teacher's Guide (PDF) by Elizabeth Mirra, Springfield High School in Springfield, Vermont

Elizabeth Mirra has been a Vermont educator for 13 years.  She is currently the Math & Science Instructional Coach at Springfield High School in Springfield, VT, where she works with educators on improving instruction and aligning curriculum to standards.  She has served as a Science Network Leader for the Vermont Department of Education, where she designed and carried out professional development for teachers throughout the State. During the summer, she teaches graduate courses in science best practices and science content to elementary and secondary teachers. She also works with schools throughout Vermont to align curriculum and improve science instruction and assessment.  Elizabeth has a B.S. in animal science from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and an M.A. in science education from Castleton State College.