Introduction
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.
Students will be added to KIOSC’s Learning Management System for their coursework.
Curriculum Focus
VCE Biology Unit 3 – AOS 1: Outcome 2: Photosynthesis as an example of biochemical pathways
Regulation of biochemical pathways in photosynthesis and cellular respiration
1.1 The general structure of the biochemical pathways in photosynthesis and cellular respiration from initial reactant to final product
1.2 The general role of enzymes and coenzymes in facilitating steps in photosynthesis and cellular respiration
1.3 The general factors that impact on enzyme function in relation to photosynthesis and cellular respiration: changes in temperature, pH, concentration, competitive and non-competitive enzyme inhibitors
Photosynthesis as an example of biochemical pathways
2.1 Inputs, outputs and locations of the light dependent and light independent stages of photosynthesis in C3 plants (details of biochemical pathway mechanisms are not required)
2.2 The role of Rubisco in photosynthesis, including adaptations of C3, C4 and CAM plants to maximise the efficiency of photosynthesis
2.3 The factors that affect the rate of photosynthesis: light availability, water availability, temperature and carbon dioxide concentration
Cellular respiration as an example of biochemical pathways
3.1 The main inputs, outputs and locations of glycolysis, Krebs Cycle and electron transport chain including ATP yield (details of biochemical pathway mechanisms are not required)
3.2 The location, inputs and the difference in outputs of anaerobic fermentation in animals and yeasts
3.3 The factors that affect the rate of cellular respiration: temperature, glucose availability and oxygen concentration
Biotechnological applications of biochemical pathways
4.1 Potential uses and applications of CRISPR-Cas9 technologies to improve photosynthetic efficiencies and crop yields
4.2 Uses and applications of anaerobic fermentation of biomass for biofuel production.
