Using living algal systems, students explore how environmental factors — such as light intensity or temperature — influence the rate of photosynthesis. This program aligns directly with the skills and outcomes required in the VCE Biology Study Design and helps students build confidence in experimental design, data collection, analysis, and scientific communication.

Before Your Visit

Step 4: Students will need to arrive with a teacher‑approved experimental plan, including:

✅ Variables

Independent, dependent, and controlled variables

✅ Aim

A statement describing what their investigation seeks to determine

✅ Hypothesis

A clear prediction linking the independent and dependent variable

✅ Materials

Based on the equipment demonstrated in the preparation videos

✅ Method

A draft procedure outlining the steps they intend to follow
(Students may refine this after practice activities at KIOSC)

✅ Results Plan

How students will:

• Collect data (qualitative and/or quantitative)
• Record it (tables, observations)
• Represent it (graphs or visual displays)

This preparation ensures students use their laboratory time productively and meaningfully.

The Investigation System: Algal Balls

Students conduct their investigation using algal balls — algae encapsulated in alginate, providing a safe, stable, and consistent system for measuring photosynthesis.

Hydrogen Carbonate Indicator solution allows students to track CO₂ levels through colour change:

• Purple → Increased pH, indicating photosynthesis
• Yellow/orange → Decreased pH, indicating respiration

This highly visual method helps students connect cellular processes to observable changes, reinforcing conceptual understanding.

What Happens During the 3‑Hour Session

1. Equipment Training

KIOSC educators guide students through:

• pH probes
• UV spectrophotometers
• Light and temperature control equipment
• Colour indicator charts

This ensures all students can confidently handle laboratory tools.

2. Familiarisation Activity

A short guided experiment allows students to practise:

• Handling algal balls
• Observing indicator colour changes
• Identifying sources of uncertainty
• Refining their method before beginning their independent investigation

3. Independent Investigation Time

Students spend 1–2 hours carrying out their self‑designed experiments.
They are encouraged to repeat trials where possible to improve reliability.

4. Debrief and Poster Preparation Guidance

If time permits, the KIOSC team supports students in:

• Interpreting results
• Considering sources of error
• Understanding how their findings connect to the scientific poster they will complete at school

How This Program Supports Schools

This experience:

• Meets VCE Biology requirements for a student‑designed scientific investigation
• Provides access to specialised equipment schools may not have
• Reinforces scientific inquiry skills needed for Units 3 and 4
• Builds student independence, confidence, and scientific reasoning

KIOSC supplies the laboratory environment, expert guidance, and hands‑on equipment training.
Teachers retain full oversight of student progress, assessment, and approval of investigation plans.