| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Biology |
| Lesson Topic: outline the main stages in the process of cell signalling leading to specific responses: secretion of specific chemicals (ligands) from cells, transport of ligands to target cells, binding of ligands to cell surface receptors on target cells |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe the three main stages of cell signalling: ligand secretion, transport, and receptor binding.
- Explain how ligand packaging and exocytosis occur within the signalling cell.
- Analyse the mechanisms that move ligands to target cells and how receptor activation triggers intracellular responses.
- Evaluate how signal termination is achieved through ligand degradation or receptor desensitisation.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- PowerPoint slides with diagrams of the fluid‑mosaic membrane and signalling pathway
- Handout summarising the three stages and key terminology
- Model of a cell membrane (optional) or printed diagram
- Exit‑ticket cards for the conclusion activity
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Introduction:
Begin with a quick video clip showing insulin release and its effect on muscle cells to spark curiosity. Ask students what they already know about how cells communicate. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to map the complete signalling cascade and identify where each step occurs.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑Now (5'): Students list examples of hormones and guess how they travel in the body.
- Mini‑lecture with slides (15'): Overview of ligand synthesis, packaging, and exocytosis.
- Guided group activity (10'): Build a flow‑chart of ligand transport mechanisms using the handout.
- Interactive simulation (10'): Explore receptor binding and downstream signalling on the whiteboard.
- Think‑Pair‑Share (5'): Discuss how signals are terminated and why regulation matters.
- Formative check (5'): Quick quiz via Kahoot to confirm understanding of the three stages.
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Conclusion:
Recap the sequence from ligand production to cellular response, highlighting key structures involved. Students write one “exit ticket” stating the most surprising step they learned. Assign a short homework: create a labelled diagram of a signalling pathway of their choice.
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