“Reading” Human Bones: How High School Students Uncovered the Secrets of the Skeleton

Human bones hold far more information than meets the eye — from determining sex, age, and height to revealing signs of diseases or injuries. A group of 13 high school students had the unique opportunity to explore this fascinating world during an excursion at the Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University.

“At the beginning of the excursion, students received a theoretical introduction to the basic anatomy of the human skeleton and learned to identify individual bones, including their Latin names, which many mastered impressively. We then focused on analyzing key bones such as the pelvis, skull, and lower jaw—critical for determining sex, age, and height. Together, we examined anthropological techniques and calculations used in these analyses,” explains MVDr. Ivana Pračková, Ph.D., assistant professor and the excursion’s instructor.

The practical part of the excursion allowed students to determine the sex, age, and height of individuals based on real skeletal remains. Additionally, they examined five pathological specimens, discussing possible diseases or injuries that left marks on the bones. “The students performed excellently — not only could they accurately describe the bones but also apply anthropological methods and interpret pathological signs correctly,” adds Dr. Pračková.

Several students expressed interest in pursuing studies at the Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, which the instructor found very encouraging. “It is wonderful to see such talented and motivated young people who might one day return to our Department of Anatomy as students,” she remarks.

This event was organized as part of a so-called T-excursion program, designed for selected inquisitive high school students to deepen their knowledge through practical experience at real scientific workplaces. Unlike traditional excursions, where scientists often deliver long lectures and merely show labs, T-excursions are largely hands-on from the students’ perspective.

Before the practical session, students complete online preparatory work using tailored study materials suited to their age and knowledge level. The materials often go beyond standard school curricula and end with a test or require a motivation letter. The practical part lasts a half-day (3–5 hours) in laboratories or specialized institutions collaborating with Masaryk University, the Czech Academy of Sciences, the Masaryk Oncology Institute, among others.

Health-related topics at Masaryk University’s Faculty of Medicine are especially popular, which is why T-excursions are held twice yearly—in November/December and again in May/June.