Fast plants for finer science - an article from the Journal of Biological Education

An article introducing 'fast plants' (rapid-cycling brassicas) for use in the classroom.

An Investigation into Leaf Surface Temperature

This practical is designed to be used as the opening lesson of the transport in plants section of the A level specification. It aims to engage the students in an investigation-based introduction to this topic rather than one based on content. The simple investigation will ask, “What happens to the surface temperature of leaves if petroleum jelly is applied to their lower surfaces?”

The inhibition of catechol oxidase by lead

The enzyme, catechol oxidase, is easily extracted from banana. In this practical, students measure the extent to which lead inhibits the catechol oxidase.

Questions about Quadrats

Interdependence is one of the five key science ideas at KS3. Whilst this can be taught theoretically, some practical fieldwork greatly enhances pupils' understanding. Almost certainly the fieldwork would entail looking at plant abundance and distribution and, of course, some work with quadrats!

Ecology Practical 1 - Measuring abundance and random sampling

A simple onine ecology practical exercise, giving students an opportunity to practice random sampling to measure the abundance of various different species on an area of grassland, before they carry out practical fieldwork. Students will look at images of quadrats, identify the plants and measure the abundance.

'Algal balls' - Photosynthesis using algae wrapped in jelly balls

This lively practical uses algae to look at the rate of photosynthesis. The algae are 'immobilised' in sodium alginate, and then used for the experiment.

'Algal balls' - Investigating photosynthesis and respiration: post-16 version

This lively practical uses algae to look at the rate of photosynthesis. The algae are 'immobilised' in sodium alginate, and then used for the experiment. This version of the resource is specifically designed for post-16 students.

Student Sheet 2 - Growing and caring for rapid-cycling brassicas

'Fast plants', or rapid-cycling brassicas, are a fascinating way to look at all sorts of biology topics, including plant growth, tropisms, floral reproduction, pollination, embryonic development, and genetics. This student worksheet introduces how to care for the rapid-cycling brassicas.

Student Sheet 1 - Planting instructions for rapid-cycling brassicas

'Fast plants', or rapid-cycling brassicas, are a fascinating way to look at all sorts of biology topics, including plant growth, tropisms, floral reproduction, pollination, embryonic development, and genetics. This student worksheet introduces how to plant the rapid-cycling brassicas.

Student Sheet 4 - Pollen Tube Growth

The growth of pollen tubes makes a fascinating practical in the lab, and is easily observed under medium power of a microscope over the course of a double lesson. This resource includes full teaching and technical notes, together with guidance on which pollen grains to use at what time of year, a zip file of sample images and a student's worksheet.

Demonstrating ecosystems with an eco-column

Demonstrate food chains and ecosystems in the classroom, with this eco-column made out of old soft drinks bottles. A great activity for a Science or Gardening Club.

Measuring changes in ascorbic acid (vitamin C) concentration in ripening fruit and vegetables

A way to measure the amount of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) in fruits and plant material, using DCPIP.

Demonstrating Oxygen Evolution during Photosynthesis using Pondweed

Demonstrating oxygen formation during photosynthesis can be a tricky process. One common way is to gather bubbles of gas given off by an aquatic plant. This teaching resource introduces Cabomba, a pondweed which is much more effective than the traditional Elodea.

Investigating photosynthetic pigments through TLC

A rapid and reliable way to separate leaf pigments using thin layer chromatography - version for Scottish Highers

Student Sheet 5 - Investigating Seed Germination

A simple experiment to investigate the germination of seed under different conditions, by growing seeds upright in Petri dishes. It allows students to make quantitative measurements of root / shoot growth, length of root hairs, etc, as well as % germination. This technique can also be used for investigations into the effect of acid rain.

Student Sheet 8 - Phototropism: the Response of Seedlings to Light

Seedlings growing on a windowsill will often demonstrate phototropism - bending towards the source of light. In this experiment, students investigate the wavelengths of light that influence phototropism.

Student Sheet 7 - Demonstrating Gravitropism in Seedling Stalks

An intriguing way to demonstrate gravitropism in action over the course of a lesson, using the hypocotyls (stalks) of small seedlings. Students may be surprised to see how quickly the seedlings respond to gravity.

Investigating the Hormone Auxin (IAA), a Plant Growth Regulator

An investigation into the effects of the hormone auxin (IAA)as a plant growth regulator, with opportunities to look at root development, leaf abscission and auxiliary bud development.

Student Sheet 9 - Growing Radishes in Film Cans

Radishes provide a cheap and reliable way to carry out a number of investigations into plants, including nutrient requirements, effects of growing conditions, etc. This protocol outlines a simple method of growing radishes that can be used in the school lab.

Student Sheet 10 - Thin Layer Chromatography for Photosynthetic Pigments

Several different pigments are involved in the absorption of light. This reliable and enjoyable practical shows how these plant pigments can be extracted and then separated using thin layer chromatography (TLC). A low-cost method to get the most out of TLC sheets, including the opportunity to identify the pigments involved using Rf values.