Carolina Investigations® for Use with AP® Biology: Photosynthesis Leaf Disk Assay

Students investigate photosynthesis using a leaf disk assay. In the Guided Investigation, students measure the rate of photosynthesis by counting the number of leaf disks floating at each time. Leaf disks float as oxygen gas is produced during photosynthesis. Students test the effect of using solutions with and without a carbon source. In the Inquiry Investigation, students develop and follow an experimental plan to investigate the effect of a chosen variable on photosynthesis. Kit includes enough materials for 8 groups.

Unit Connection
Unit 3: Cellular Energetics, topic 3.5: Photosynthesis

Standards Connection
ENE-1 The highly complex organization of living systems requires constant input of energy and the exchange of macromolecules.

Time Requirements
60 minutes of preparation before each of the following: the Pre-Lab, Guided Investigation, and Inquiry Investigation. The Pre-Lab takes approximately 45 minutes. The Guided Investigation takes approximately 60 minutes. The time required for the Inquiry Investigation will vary based on students' plans.

Digital Resources
Includes 1-year access to digital resources that support instruction. Digital resources may include teacher manual and student guide, pre-lab activities and setup videos, simulations, and post-lab analysis and assessments.

Prerequisite Knowledge and Skills
Students should be familiar with the concept of light as an energy source, the electromagnetic spectrum and the wavelengths of visible light, and the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.

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