Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 17/01/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: relate the molecular structure of triglycerides to their functions in living organisms
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the basic structure of triglycerides, including the glycerol backbone, fatty‑acid chains, and ester bonds.
  • Explain how variations in fatty‑acid saturation, chain length, and double‑bond position influence physical properties and biological functions.
  • Analyse the relationship between triglyceride structure and its roles in energy storage, insulation, protection, and membrane formation.
  • Apply knowledge of triglyceride metabolism to outline how they are mobilised and used for ATP production.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • Slides/PowerPoint on triglyceride structure
  • Handouts with diagrams of glycerol and fatty‑acid chains
  • Physical models or molecular kits (optional)
  • Worksheet with application questions
  • Whiteboard and markers
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick visual of butter and oil, asking students what they notice about their textures. Recall prior learning on basic lipid chemistry and the concept of amphipathic molecules. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to link structural features of triglycerides to their specific biological functions.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑Now (5') – Students label a blank triglyceride diagram on a worksheet, reviewing glycerol and fatty‑acid components.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10') – Present slides covering esterification, saturation vs. unsaturation, and chain length, highlighting how each feature alters melting point and polarity.
  3. Interactive demonstration (8') – Use molecular models or a digital 3‑D viewer to compare saturated and unsaturated triglycerides, discussing physical state differences.
  4. Guided practice (12') – In pairs, students complete a table linking structural variations (saturation, chain length, cis/trans) to functions (energy storage, insulation, membrane fluidity). Teacher circulates for formative feedback.
  5. Metabolism overview (8') – Brief animation of lipase action, glycerol entry into glycolysis, and β‑oxidation, connecting structure to energy release.
  6. Check for understanding (5') – Quick quiz (e.g., Kahoot or exit ticket) with two application questions.
  7. Summary discussion (5') – Whole‑class recap of key points and clarification of any misconceptions.
Conclusion:
Summarise how the glycerol‑fatty‑acid architecture determines both the physical state and the diverse roles of triglycerides in organisms. Ask students to write one exit‑ticket sentence linking a specific structural feature to a function. For homework, assign a short problem set comparing the energy yield of triglycerides versus carbohydrates.