Using Models to Understand Photosynthesis

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This Using Models to Understand Photosynthesis activity also includes:

Is your class in the dark about photosynthesis? Shed some sunlight on an important biological process with a thoughtful activity. After answering questions to help determine their level of knowledge, learners work with chemical equations and graphic representations to better understand how photosynthesis creates chemical energy.

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CCSS: Adaptable NGSS: Designed

Concepts

photosynthesis, glucose, sunlight, water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, energy, conservation of mass, balancing chemical equations, the calvin cycle, chloroplasts, chlorophyll, chemical energy, plants

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

Place pupils in pairs or small groups to answer questions, then come back together as a class and discuss
Use the video links in the teacher's guide to support classwork and fill gaps in understanding

Classroom Considerations

Assumes students complete the activity after a related resource about ATP and cellular respiration

Pros

The lesson provides an excellent opportunity for individuals to learn collaboratively and engage in evidence-based discussion
Three different models show photosynthesis from every angle
A fully-stocked teacher's guide contains video links, handouts, and planning ideas