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Grades 9–12. Students use molecular models to build the macromolecules found in all living organisms. They conduct basic chemical tests for macromolecules and model the enzymatic digestion of starches and proteins. Finally, students design an investigation to measure how environmental factors influence the rate of hydrogen peroxide decomposition by the enzyme catalase. Materials are sufficient for 30 students working in groups of 3.

• Model the formation of carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids, and proteins
• Perform tests for monosaccharides, starches, and proteins
• Design and carry out an experiment to measure how environmental factors influence enzyme activity

Model macromolecules

Grades 9–12. Students model how carbon can form straight, branched, and ring-shaped compounds, and how monomers of simple sugars can combine to form macromolecules of starches, glycogen, and cellulose. They also model how fatty acids can combine with glycerol to form lipids, and learn how to determine by their structure whether they are saturated or unsaturated. Model amino acids are built and joined to make proteins.

Perform chemical tests

Conduct testing of sugars, starches, and proteins with Benedict's solution, IKI, and biuret solution. Your students also investigate how specialized proteins known as enzymes can act as catalysts in living organisms to speed up chemical reactions. As their Extend activity, students design an investigation to measure how environmental factors influence the rate of hydrogen peroxide decomposition by the enzyme catalase.

Kit materials are sufficient for 30 students working in groups of 3. Receive a FREE digital teacher's manual and student guide with kit purchase. Kit includes lab supplies plus teacher's manual. Kit Refill (item #251072) replenishes consumable items.