Day 11 of 30
Photosynthesis basics
Content is AI-assisted and continuously improved through educator review
Learning Objective
Students will be able to explore photosynthesis.
In this lesson, we'll explore photosynthesis basics. Scientific inquiry allows us to investigate and explain natural phenomena.
Photosynthesis is the process plants use to make their own food using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. Inside plant cells, chlorophyll (which makes plants green) captures sunlight. The plant uses this energy to turn water (from roots) and carbon dioxide (from air) into glucose (sugar for food) and oxygen. The equation is: sunlight + water + carbon dioxide → glucose + oxygen. Plants feed themselves and produce the oxygen we breathe—thank you, plants!
As you work through today's material, pay attention to the examples and try to identify the patterns or strategies being used. This will help you apply these concepts to new problems.
Take notes on key points and make connections to what you've already learned in previous lessons.
The process of converting light into chemical energy
To examine systematically through observation and experiment
Instructions
Materials Needed
- Lab notebook
- Investigation materials
- Safety equipment if needed
What three things do plants need for photosynthesis?
What do plants produce during photosynthesis?
Where in the plant does photosynthesis take place?
Teaching Tip
For this age group: Balance direct instruction with collaborative activities. Allow students to explain their thinking and make connections to prior knowledge when exploring photosynthesis basics.