NSTA - National Science Teachers Association

Member Login

Science Store

Bestsellers

Science StoreView Cart   View Cart

Flow of Energy and Matter: Photosynthesis


By: Susan Koba with Anne Tweed
Free Offering
$0 - Member Price  
$0 - Nonmember Price

Details

Type of Product:Book Chapter
Average Rating:
 based on 2 reviews
Publication Title:Hard-to-Teach Biology Concepts: A Framework to Deepen Student Understanding
Publication Date:5/1/2009
Pages:50
Grade Level:High School
See Also:View all available chapters for this book
View the full version of this book
View the downloadable PDF version of this book


Description

In this chapter, the authors explore the misconception that carbon from carbon dioxide is the source of a plant’s mass. They also look at other common, research-identified misconceptions that make it difficult for students to understand photosynthesis and to connect the photosynthetic processes in a plant cell to the plant and its surroundings. They focus on photosynthesis as a mechanism for harnessing energy and generating organic carbon from atmospheric carbon. In addition, they briefly discuss what happens to that carbon in the plant once photosynthesis is complete and gas exchange in plants during respiration. This free selection includes the Table of Contents, Introduction, and Index.


Ideas For Use

The primary purpose of this chapter is to model the first portions of the Instructional Planning Framework’s responsive phase: identifying, eliciting, and confronting preconceptions and becoming aware of research-identified misconceptions (Figure 4.5, p. 126).

Additional Info

Science Discipline: (mouse over for full classification)
Photosynthesis
Scientific habits of mind
Intended User Role:Curriculum Supervisor, High-School Educator, Teacher
Educational Issues:Achievement, Assessment of students, Classroom management, Curriculum, Educational research, Inquiry learning, Instructional materials, Integrating technology, Professional development, Teacher content knowledge, Teacher preparation, Teaching strategies

Technical

Resource Format:application/pdf
Size:189 KB
Requirements:Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader


National Standards Correlation

This resource has 8 correlations with the National Standards.  
[VIEW CORRELATIONS]

This resource has 8 correlations with the National Standards.  
[HIDE CORRELATIONS]

  • Life Science
    • The cell
      • The process of photosynthesis provides a vital connection between the sun and the energy needs of living systems. (9-12)
    • Matter, energy, and organization in living systems
      • Plants capture energy by absorbing light and using it to form strong (covalent) chemical bonds between the atoms of carbon-containing (organic) molecules. These molecules can be used to assemble larger molecules with biological activity (including proteins, DNA, sugars, and fats). (9-12)
  • Science as Inquiry
    • Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry
      • Think critically and logically to make the relationships between evidence and explanations.
  • Process Standards for Professional Development
    • Design
      • Introduce teachers to scientific literature, media, and technological resources that expand their science knowledge and their ability to access further knowledge. (NSES)
  • Content Standards
    • Quality Teaching
      • Deepens educators’ content knowledge, provides them with research-based instructional strategies to assist students in meeting rigorous academic standards, and prepares them to use various types of classroom assessments appropriately. (NSDC)
  • Teaching Standards
    • Teachers of science plan an inquiry-based science program for their students.
      • Select teaching and assessment strategies that support the development of student understanding and nurture a community of science learners.
    • Teachers provide students with the time, space, and resources needed to learn science.
      • Create a setting for student work that is flexible and supportive of science inquiry.
      • Make the available science tools, materials, media, and technological resources accessible to students.


Customer Reviews
Hard-to-Teach Biology Concepts - Worthwhile
  Reviewed by: Alaina (Doylestown, PA) on January 8, 2013
  I've only explored one chapter of this book but I look forward to obtaining and utilizing the entire book. It not only contains key content aligned with national science standards but it provides great pedagogy and thorough examples. Typically when I look for resources I am quickly disappointed by the lack of solid examples, but in this case I am pleasantly surprised. I highly recommend checking it out. As for me, tomorrow I shall employ concept cartoons in the classroom.

Chapter: Photosynthesis and Flow of Energy
  Reviewed by: Patty McGinnis on June 4, 2011
  The chapter dedicated to understanding photosynthesis and the flow of energy and matter includes a research-based learning sequence that addresses common student misconceptions and an instructional plan designed to correct misconceptions. Essential understandings are developed through sequenced learning targets. The chapter also includes formative assessments and resources that address this essential topic. Written in a sequential manner, this chapter will assist you in redesigning your current method of teaching energy flow and photosynthesis.

If you wish to add your review, click here.

All