The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in pondweed: evaluation
I can evaluate and explain data from an investigation into the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in pondweed.
The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in pondweed: evaluation
I can evaluate and explain data from an investigation into the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in pondweed.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Process data and plot a graph of appropriate results to identify and describe patterns or trends in the results.
- Explaining the results using ideas about the requirement of light for photosynthesis.
- Identifying sources of systematic and random error that could affect the accuracy of the measurements.
- Suggesting improvements (e.g. ways to measure the amount of gas more accurately).
- Evaluating the precision, repeatability and reproducibility of the results.
Keywords
Accuracy - a measurement result is considered accurate if it is judged to be close to the true value
Error - an error leads to measurements being different to what they would otherwise be (the true value)
Precision - the spread of results around the mean value
Repeatability - measurements are similar when repeated by the same person or group using the same equipment and method
Reproducibility - similar results are obtained when an investigation is repeated by another person or group using different equipment
Common misconception
Pupils often struggle with the difference between repeatability and reproducibility.
The lesson outlines the difference between these two aspects of working scientifically and checks pupils understanding of these in relation to the investigation.
To help you plan your year 11 biology lesson on: The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in pondweed: evaluation, 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 pondweed: evaluation, 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.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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