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Year 11 - Science

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

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 carry out an investigation into the effect of light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis in algae.

Key Notes

  • 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.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • 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 Mistakes To Avoid

  • 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.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

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

the amount of light reaching a given surface area in a period of time. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.

3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.

Mistake: 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. Correction: Each type of variable is considered during the lesson and repeated to help pupils to understand the differences between each type of variable.

More Lessons In This Unit

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