ASK WHY

Plants are all around us. We tend to take them for granted, but imagine a world without lush green grasses and trees – a planet blanketed in desert. Could we survive? Plants are an integral part of our environment and provide the food, oxygen, and fibers we depend on for survival. And their ability to photosynthesize is one of nature’s most amazing and essential reactions.

BRANCH OUT

Botanists study all plant life. They may study the effects of pollution (such as acid rain) on plants and work toward environmental protection, or they may identify new plant species and evaluate their parts and uses. Some botanists produce entire plants from single cells with a technique called plant tissue culture. Others use biotechnology to develop new or improved plants. 

GET FOCUSED

GO DEEPER

As a class, read the Background(s) in the Investigation. When finished, discuss the following concepts as a class:

• Photosynthesis occurs inside the parts of a cell called chloroplasts.
• Chloroplasts contain pigments needed for photosynthesis.
• These pigments include chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids.
• Chlorophyll-a is the main pigment needed for photosynthesis.
• The procedure called chromatography can separate the different pigments. 

LEARN THE LabLearner LINGO

The following list includes Key Terms introduced within the CELL. These terms should be used, as appropriate, by teachers and students during everyday classroom discourse.

• photosynthesis
• chloroplasts
• chlorophyll
• carbon dioxide
• oxygen 

Note: Definitions of these terms can be found on the Introduction page to the CELL.

Note: Additional words may be bolded within the Background(s). These words are not Key Terms and are strictly emphasized for exposure at this time.

SET FOR SUCCESS

• As a class, review photosynthesis. If needed, refer to the following equation:

• During this CELL, you will perform various experiments to allow you to observe the needs of plants and the products of photosynthesis.
• Play the video below. Remember to follow along with your SDR and make any notes that you think might be helpful.
• After the video, divide into your lab groups to discuss strategy for the lab. For example, you may assign certain group members to perform specific functions during the lab.

Note: The purpose of the video is to allow you to anticipate the laboratory experience you will soon encounter. You should leave this PreLab session with a firm idea of what to expect and how to perform in the lab.

Note: Homework is posted below the video.

HOMEWORK

You should review the Investigation and video in preparation for the Lab.