Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: describe the relationship between the structure and function of mitochondria using diagrams and electron micrographs
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the structural components of mitochondria and their specific functions in cellular respiration.
  • Explain how the inner membrane cristae increase surface area for the electron transport chain and ATP synthesis.
  • Interpret electron micrographs and labelled diagrams to relate mitochondrial structure to its role in oxidative phosphorylation.
  • Apply knowledge of compartmentalisation to predict the impact of membrane damage on ATP production.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen for slides
  • PowerPoint/Google Slides with labelled mitochondria diagrams and electron micrograph
  • Printed worksheets with fill‑in tables and diagram‑labelling activity
  • Model of a mitochondrion or 3‑D printed replica
  • Whiteboard and markers for quick sketches
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick poll: “Where does most ATP in a eukaryotic cell come from?” Review prior learning of glycolysis and link it to mitochondrial function. Explain that by the end of the lesson students will be able to describe how mitochondrial structure supports each stage of respiration.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5'): Students write the aerobic respiration equation from memory on sticky notes.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10'): Present key mitochondrial compartments with annotated slides.
  3. Diagram labelling activity (15'): Groups label a printed mitochondrion schematic, identifying outer membrane, intermembrane space, inner membrane, cristae, and matrix.
  4. Electron micrograph analysis (10'): Examine the provided micrograph, describe visible features and relate them to function.
  5. Concept‑mapping (10'): Whole‑class map linking structural features to functional roles using the summary table.
  6. Formative check (5'): Quick quiz via Kahoot or hand‑raise questions on structure‑function relationships.
Conclusion:
Summarise how each structural element enables efficient ATP production. Ask students to write one key takeaway on an exit ticket. Assign homework to create a one‑page labelled diagram of a mitochondrion highlighting where each stage of respiration occurs.