| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Biology |
| Lesson Topic: describe the structure of a molecule of collagen as an example of a fibrous protein, and the arrangement of collagen molecules to form collagen fibres |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe the repeating Gly‑X‑Y primary sequence and its significance in collagen.
- Explain how three left‑handed poly‑proline II helices combine to form a right‑handed triple helix.
- Illustrate the hierarchical assembly from tropocollagen molecule to fibril, fibre and tissue.
- Analyse the role of hydrogen bonding and lysine‑derived cross‑links in stabilising fibrils.
- Apply this knowledge to answer typical exam questions on collagen structure.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector or interactive whiteboard
- PowerPoint slides with collagen diagrams
- Handout summarising collagen hierarchy
- 3‑D molecular model kits or printed models
- Worksheet for labeling fibril diagrams
- Whiteboard and markers
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Introduction:
Show a short video of tendon banding under an electron microscope to spark curiosity about tissue strength. Ask students what they already know about protein primary and secondary structures. Explain that by the end of the lesson they will be able to describe collagen’s molecular architecture and explain how individual molecules pack into strong fibres.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5') – Quick quiz on protein structure terminology displayed on the board.
- Mini‑lecture (10') – Present the Gly‑X‑Y repeat, left‑handed poly‑proline II helix and formation of the right‑handed triple helix using slides.
- Interactive modelling (10') – Students build a triple helix with model kits and discuss hydrogen‑bond stabilisation.
- Guided practice (12') – Analyse a quarter‑stagger diagram; students label a fibril worksheet showing the 67 nm D‑period.
- Group activity (8') – Create a concept map linking cross‑linking (lysyl oxidase) to mechanical strength.
- Check for understanding (5') – Exit ticket: one sentence summarising how collagen molecules assemble into fibres.
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Conclusion:
Recap the Gly‑X‑Y primary sequence, triple‑helix formation, quarter‑stagger fibril arrangement and the importance of covalent cross‑links. Collect exit tickets and remind students to complete a short online quiz on collagen hierarchy as homework.
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