Standards Site

 
 
Your path:  Standards Site Home > Schemes of work > Science at key stage 3 > Plants and photosynthesis > c. What is the role of the leaf in photosynthesis?
Schemes of Work
Schemes home Planning Adapting units Combining units     Schemes help QCA
About this unit
Where the unit fits in
Expectations
Prior learning
Health and safety
Language for learning
Resources
Out-of-school learning
All objectives
All activities
All outcomes
Print/download the unit

Science at key stage 3    (Year 9)

Unit 9C: Plants and photosynthesis
Section 5: c. What is the role of the leaf in photosynthesis?

QCA

Objectives
Children should learn:
  • how leaf cells close to the upper surface are adapted for photosynthesis

Activities

Outcomes
Children:
  • Review pupils' knowledge of cell structure with quick questions. Provide them with microscope slides or secondary sources, eg 35mm slides, photomicrographs, so that they can see the internal structure of the leaf. Ask them to compare the leaf cells close to the upper surface with other cells and to suggest how they are adapted for photosynthesis, eg comparing the darker upper surface of leaves with the lower surface.
  • Discuss their ideas with them and establish the idea that the leaf is designed to absorb light efficiently in its habitat.
  • describe differences between leaf cells, and explain that those close to the upper surface photosynthesise effectively, eg are long and thin, have many chloroplasts

Points to note
  • Pupils may need to be reminded how to use a microscope correctly and to avoid reflecting sunlight with a mirror, if this is the source of illumination.
  • There are 'cut-and-stick' leaf templates available showing cell types.
  • In unit 7D 'Variation and classification' pupils may have investigated the variation of leaf size in shady and sunny places. They could be reminded of this and asked to relate it to their understanding of photosynthesis.

Sections in this unit

 << previous section next section >>
This unit is divided into sections. Each section contains a sequence of activities with related objectives and outcomes. You can view this unit by moving through the sections or print/download the whole unit.
1. a. How do plants grow?
2. b. How do plants grow?
3. a. What is the role of the leaf in photosynthesis?
4. b. What is the role of the leaf in photosynthesis?
5. c. What is the role of the leaf in photosynthesis?
6. Checking progress
7. What happens to the glucose produced in leaves?
8. What is the role of the root in photosynthesis?
9. Why are green plants important in the environment?
10. Reviewing work