This activity is designed for students to:
1) learn that the rate of photosynthesis is influenced by environmental factors that can be quantified
2) understand the equation of photosynthesis and how the structure of a leaf allows for the required gas exchange to occur through the stomata
3) properly design an experiment with one variable, analyze results and report findings to the class
Students will use higher order thinking skills throughout this activity. They will need to use critical thinking to design the experiment and analyze the collected data. They will improve their observing, questioning and communicating skills. The students will need to determine if the question they have chosen to test, is indeed testable. The teacher will guide students to problem solve as they design and modify the experiment to insure only one independent variable is being tested during the experiment.
The students will learn specific concepts during the activity. The students will learn that:
1) the variables of light intensity, temperature, carbon dioxide, light quality all influence the rate of photosynthesis.
2) photosynthesis requires carbon dioxide to furnish the carbon required to make glucose. This carbon dioxide will be supplied by sodium bicarbonate dissolved in the water with the plant leaf disks
3) the stomata opening is controlled by the guard cells and that water, carbon dioxide and oxygen all pass through the stoma openings
4) food production for animals and humans on earth is dependent on plants. By increasing the use of carbon dioxide by plants, it may help slow global climate change. In turn, climate change (warmer in some regions, cooler in other regions) may affect various species of plants differently.
