Activity 1.4 - The processes of light-dependent and light-independent reactions

Learning Aims:

    Students are expected to

    • Identify the products of the light and dark phase
    • Explain the roles of light, pigment, water, and the electron transport system in the light phase
    • Understand the transfer of energy from light to usable chemical energy
    • Explain the processes of dark phase
      Materials:
      Supporting computer simulations:
      http://filebox.vt.edu/users/dwilhelm/portfolio/biounitplan.pdf
      http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/nature/photosynthesis.html
      http://www.wiley.com/legacy/college/boyer/0470003790/animations/photosynthesis/photosynthesis.htm
      http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/biolink/j_explorations/ch09expl.htm
      Suggestions for use:
      In this part, it is suggested that the teacher uses direct teaching as it is considered the most difficult part within the unit for students to understand. After that students are asked to individually fill in the concept map, and then share it in pairs (or groups). In addition, students’ work sheets are provided with short questions for student self-assessment.
      Possible questions:
        • What are the products of the light and dark phase of photosynthesis?
        • What are the roles of light, pigment, water, and the electron transport system in the light phase?
        • What happens with a plant which is: (a) always exposed to the light? (b) kept in dark for days?