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Year 11 - Science

The effect of light intensity on rate of photosynthesis in algae: evaluation

Photosynthesis: factors affecting the rate

Unit Summary

This unit explores factors affecting photosynthesis rates and focuses on planning and conducting experiments. It includes selecting techniques, accurate measurements, data analysis, and evaluating methods to improve reliability and suggest further investigations.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to evaluate and explain data from an investigation into the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in algae.

Key Notes

  • Process data and plot a graph of appropriate results to identify and describe patterns or trends in the results.
  • Explain the results using ideas about the requirement of light for photosynthesis.
  • Identify sources of systematic and random error that could affect the accuracy of the measurements.
  • Suggest improvements (e.g. ways to measure the pH change and/or the rate more accurately).
  • Evaluate the precision, repeatability and reproducibility of the results.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • 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: Precision refers to how closely results are spread 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 Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils often struggle with the difference between repeatability and reproducibility.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.

Process data and plot a graph of appropriate results to identify and describe patterns or trends in the results. Explain the results using ideas about the requirement of light for photosynthesis.

2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. 'accuracy'

A measurement result is considered accurate if it is judged to be close to the true value. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: Pupils often struggle with the difference between repeatability and reproducibility. Correction: The lesson outlines the difference between these two aspects of working scientifically and checks pupils understanding of these in relation to the investigation.

More Lessons In This Unit

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