The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: practical
I can carry out an investigation into the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in algae.
The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: practical
I can carry out an investigation into the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in algae.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Following an appropriate method to vary light intensity and measure the colour change of indicator.
- Accurate measurement of variables (distance, time, colour change); control of variables that might affect the results.
- Comparison of indicator colour to a chart to determine pH.
- Record results in an appropriate table.
Keywords
Light intensity - the amount of light reaching a given surface area in a period of time
Rate - a measure of how much change occurs per unit of time
Variable - a factor that can be changed during an experiment
Control variable - a factor that is kept the same during an experiment
Accurate - a measurement result is considered accurate if it is judged to be close to the true value
Common misconception
Some pupils do not consider how to control variables carefully enough. This means results are likely to be less accurate and so do not provide conclusions that can be used to support a hypothesis.
Each type of variable is considered during the lesson and repeated to help pupils to understand the differences between each type of variable.
To help you plan your year 11 biology lesson on: The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: practical, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 biology lesson on: The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: practical, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 biology lessons from the Photosynthesis: factors affecting the rate unit, dive into the full secondary biology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Light source, beaker, bijou bottles, hydrogencarbonate indicator, measuring cylinder, algae immobilised in alginate beads, graduated pipette, spatula, pH indicator chart, foil, meter rule, stopclock.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
