The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: evaluation
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can evaluate and explain data from an investigation into the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in algae.
Key learning points
- Process data and plot a graph of appropriate results to identify and describe patterns or trends in the results.
- Explain the results using ideas about the requirement of light for photosynthesis.
- Identify sources of systematic and random error that could affect the accuracy of the measurements.
- Suggest improvements (e.g. ways to measure the pH change and/or the rate more accurately).
- Evaluate the precision, repeatability and reproducibility of the results.
Keywords
Accuracy - A measurement result is considered accurate if it is judged to be close to the true value.
Error - An error leads to measurements being different to what they would otherwise be (the true value).
Precision - Precision refers to how closely results are spread around the mean value.
Repeatability - Measurements are similar when repeated by the same person or group using the same equipment and method.
Reproducibility - Similar results are obtained when an investigation is repeated by another person or group using different equipment.
Common misconception
Pupils often struggle with the difference between repeatability and reproducibility.
The lesson outlines the difference between these two aspects of working scientifically and checks pupils understanding of these in relation to the investigation.
Teacher tip
Spend time talking about accuracy and precision. Precision is where all results are in close agreement. It doesn't infer accuracy. Use a dartboard analogy. The 'true value' is the bullseye. Throwing darts here is both precise and accurate. Hitting double 1 with 5 darts is precise but not accurate.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Plants produce glucose and during photosynthesis.
Q2.What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?
Q3.What is the gas taken in by plants for photosynthesis?
Q4.In which cell organelle does photosynthesis occur?
Q5.What is the formula for glucose?
Q6.How can gas production be measured in photosynthesis experiments?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the purpose of evaluating an experiment?
Q2.What does precision in an experiment refer to?
Q3.How can you improve the accuracy of pH measurement in photosynthesis experiments?
Q4.What does reproducibility in an experiment mean?
Q5.How can systematic errors be identified in an experiment?
Q6.How can you reduce random errors in your data collection?
To help you plan your 11 combined science lesson on: The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: evaluation, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 combined science lesson on: The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: evaluation, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 combined science lessons from the Photosynthesis: factors affecting the rate unit, dive into the full secondary combined science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.