Bioenergetics: Photosynthesis
This lesson introduces Bioenergetics, focusing on photosynthesis as the fundamental process by which plants produce food. Students will explore the chemical equation, the role of chlorophyll, and how various factors limit the rate of the reaction.
Learning objectives
- State the word and symbol equations for photosynthesis.
- Explain why photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction.
- Identify the factors that limit the rate of photosynthesis.
- Describe how plants use the glucose produced in photosynthesis.
Lesson plan (60 minutes)
Starter · 5 min
Do Now: Recall task on plant cell structures (chloroplasts and cell walls).
Introduction · 10 min
Teacher-led explanation of the photosynthesis equation and endothermic nature.
Development · 10 min
Vocabulary matching and worked example of the inverse square law.
Main Activity · 20 min
Differentiated worksheet practice (Support, Core, Stretch).
Review · 5 min
Peer marking using the answer key.
Plenary · 10 min
Multiple-choice plenary quiz.
Key vocabulary
- Endothermic
- A chemical reaction that takes in energy from the surroundings.
- Chlorophyll
- The green pigment in chloroplasts that absorbs light energy.
- Glucose
- The simple sugar produced during photosynthesis.
- Starch
- A complex carbohydrate used by plants to store energy.
- Limiting Factor
- Anything in short supply that prevents the rate of photosynthesis from increasing.
Core worksheet (first questions)
- Write the balanced symbol equation for photosynthesis.
- Is photosynthesis endothermic or exothermic? Explain why.
- Describe two ways a leaf is adapted for efficient photosynthesis.
- Why do plants store glucose as starch instead of keeping it as glucose?
Quiz (sample)
1. What type of energy is absorbed by plants during photosynthesis?
- A. Heat
- B. Sound
- C. Light
- D. Kinetic
2. In which cell organelle does photosynthesis take place?
- A. Mitochondria
- B. Nucleus
- C. Chloroplast
- D. Ribosome
3. What are the products of photosynthesis?
- A. Carbon dioxide and water
- B. Oxygen and glucose
- C. Nitrogen and water
- D. Carbon dioxide and glucose
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