Articles tagged as "11 -14 (KS3)"

Video clip - Leaf structure, stomata and the absorption of carbon dioxide

This BBC video clip introduces the role of stomata, with the surface structure of a leaf observed using increasingly larger magnifications.This can be used as an introduction to leaf structure and then developed into a discussion of the other features of a leaf and how it is adapted for efficient photosynthesis.

Video clip - Production of oxygen in plants

This BBC video clip demonstrates a classic experiment to investigate the production of oxygen by plants in sunlight. The design of Ingenhousz’ experiments can be discussed. The control of variables controlling photosynthesis such as light and heat etc. can be considered, and the way that only one variable can be changed while all others are controlled if firm conclusions are to be drawn.

Video clip - Thomas Fairchild, speciation and evolution

This BBC video clip introduces 18th century botanist and entrepreneur Thomas Fairchild and his pioneering work into speciation. Use in lessons covering evolution and speciation or as an example of artificial manipulation of life. Could contribute to discussions of genetic modification.

Video clip - Classification techniques and the search for useful plants

This BBC video clip looks at the way in which classification techniques are used by research scientists at Kew Gardens in their search for new medicines and other useful plants. A real world use for this is demonstrated using a variety of sage plant with the ability to produce a chemical which may be effective in the treatment of malaria.

Video clip - Norman Borlaug and selective breeding of wheat

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces the American scientist Norman Borlaug, the man behind the 'green revolution' credited with saving over a billion people from starvation.

Video clip - Variation, inheritance and the work of Mendel

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces the ideas of inheritance of characteristics, with a discussion of Mendel's research into patterns of inheritance in pea plants. This can also be used to introduce a lesson on the history of science and ideas.

Video clip - The case for genetically modified crop plants

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) looks at the case for genetic modification of crop plants, and could be used for a useful stimulus for a class discussion.

Video clip - William Bateson and patterns of inheritance

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) continues the story of the pioneers of genetic research, showing how William Bateson used logic and patience to explain patterns of inheritance, and the ideas of dominant and recessive genes. Students can then be given experimental data to interpret and develop the skills of showing simple inheritance patterns using punnet squares.

Video clip - The binomial system of classification

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces the binomial system of classification, through the story of pioneering scientist Carl Linnaeus. Use as a starter for a lesson on the different levels of naming and classification of living organisms.

Video clip - Plant adaptations to overcome environmental limitations

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces the idea of limiting factors in photosynthesis, and the way in which plants are adapted to their environments. Students can watch the clip and pick out the factors which would limit the rate of photosynthesis. This can then lead to experimental work.

Microscopy - Amazing African Violets

Take a look at all sorts of specialised cells and structures, including stomata, trichomes, xylem and pollen grains, with this cheap, easily available and versatile plant. You can even see cytoplasmic streaming. This resource includes a worksheet, powerpoint and two videos.

Microscopy - Looking at xylem and specialised cells

Resources to show how you can use microscopes for quick, cheap and easy practicals in your lab. These two resources focus on looking at the structure and function of xylem and other specialised plant cells.

Using Venus' Fly Trap in the Lab

One of the SAPS Star Plants, Darwin called the Venus' Fly Trap 'one of the most wonderful plants in the world'. Great for teaching about adaptation and interdependence.

Using Onions in the Lab

Onions are easy and cheap to source, and make a great resource for looking at cell structure, particularly stomata, and for extracting DNA.

Using Cress in the Lab

Cress seeds are cheap and easy to grow, and offer a useful way to look at the germination process.

Using Garlic in the Lab

Garlic can provide a useful and easy-to-source resource for the biology lab, for looking at topics including mitosis and the cell cycle.

Using Broad Beans in the Lab

Broad beans are quick and reliable to germinate in the lab, and an excellent example for topics including nutrient cycles, nitrogen fixation and mutualism.

Using Elodea in the Lab

This pondweed is widely recommended for photosynthesis experiments, as it can be used for demonstrating oxygen formation during photosynthesis. It is easily available from aquarium shops and science suppliers.

Using Green Cabomba Pondweed in the Lab

This reliable pondweed gives off plenty of oxygen in the process of photosynthesis - a wonderful way to demonstrate the process.

Using Green Algae in the Lab

These algae make a great resource for demonstrating photosynthesis, particularly with the 'algal balls' activity.