Biology UNIT 3: Photosynthesis and biochemical pathways

Introduction

Photosynthesis

Learners analyse the structure and regulation of biochemical pathways and investigate factors that affect the rate of photosynthesis.

Program Overview

Students complete an investigation that could also be used for Unit 4: AOS 3- Scientific Inquiry.

Living algae and yeast can be trapped in alginate where they continue to carry out their life processes in a controlled, uniform environment. Students will investigate how temperature and light availability affects photosynthesis in algal balls, sharing and discussing their results.

Across the class cohort, students will choose one of three variable to test investigating photosynthesis, which can collectively be used for the ‘three prac portfolio’ SAC. Students should then collect the class data and collaborate on the methods used, to investigate the effect of the variables on photosynthesis.

Curriculum Focus

VCE Biology Unit 3 – AOS 1: Outcome 2: Photosynthesis as an example of biochemical pathways

  • the factors that affect the rate of photosynthesis: light availability and temperature
  • inputs, outputs and locations of the light dependent and light independent stages of photosynthesis in C3 plants

Science and Plants for Schools project

Students will be added to KIOSC’s Learning Management System for their coursework.