Adaptations of plants for photosynthesis: absorbing light
You can describe how plants are adapted to absorb light for photosynthesis.
Adaptations of plants for photosynthesis: absorbing light
You can describe how plants are adapted to absorb light for photosynthesis.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Plant leaves are made up of cells that contain structures called chloroplasts.
- Photosynthesis takes place in chloroplasts.
- Chloroplasts contain chlorophyll, which absorbs light for photosynthesis.
- Plant leaves are thin to allow light to pass through to cells containing chloroplasts.
- Plant leaves have a large surface area to absorb light for photosynthesis.
Keywords
Chloroplast - Photosynthesis takes place in chloroplasts, which are small structures inside some plant cells.
Adaptation - A feature that helps an organism to function and survive.
Chlorophyll - A green substance inside chloroplasts that absorbs light for photosynthesis.
Surface area - The surface area of the top side of a leaf is the area through which light can be absorbed.
Common misconception
Not appreciating the links between form and function in biological structures.
This lesson develops a key cross-cutting idea in biology: the shapes and forms of biological structures are adapted for specific functions.
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Adaptations of plants for photosynthesis: absorbing light, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 science lesson on: Adaptations of plants for photosynthesis: absorbing light, 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.
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Explore more key stage 3 science lessons from the Plant nutrition and photosynthesis unit, dive into the full secondary science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
