Photosynthesis: Plants' Superpower
Videos
Grades9, 10, 11, 12Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics
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Provided by Paleontological Research Institution
What it is
- This video describes the process photosynthesis, looks at the process within the leaves of plants, connects it to the carbon cycle, and demonstrates a simple experiment.
- Students will see graphs of data showing the amount of carbon dioxide pulled out of the air during photosynthesis and fluctuations in concentrations over time.
Teaching tips
Positives
- The experiment is simple to follow and easily replicable, with the proper probe.
- Students will learn about the impact of a nature-based solutions to the problem of excessive greenhouse emissions.
Additional Prerequisites
- The experiment uses the flux chamber which requires materials and assembly explained in this video.
Differentiation
- For a more simple experiment, students can design and conduct the experiment mentioned in the video about observing oxygen bubbles released from underwater plants.
- The teacher can pause the video at 4 minutes, 3 seconds for students to make predictions about carbon dioxide levels.
- Students can write an analysis on why they think the rate of carbon dioxide absorption slows down after the first few minutes and relate it to lessons about chemical reactions.
- Another similar resource is this experiment from the Paleontological Research Institution about respiration.
From the scientist review
This resource demonstrates the process of photosynthesis in plants. It goes on to observe how much carbon dioxide a plant uses to photosynthesize. This resource is recommended for teaching.
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