Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: describe the role of NAD and FAD in transferring hydrogen to carriers in the inner mitochondrial membrane
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the redox role of NAD⁺ and FAD in accepting electrons and protons.
  • Explain how NADH and FADH₂ deliver electrons to specific complexes of the electron transport chain.
  • Compare the proton‑pumping outcomes and ATP yields of NADH versus FADH₂ entry.
  • Illustrate the link between electron flow, the proton gradient, and ATP synthesis.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint slides with mitochondrial membrane diagram
  • Handout summarizing NAD/FAD electron entry and ATP yield
  • Model of the inner mitochondrial membrane (optional)
  • Quiz cards for quick checks
  • Markers and chart paper for group diagram
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick animation showing a burst of energy as electrons move through a cellular factory, prompting students to recall where ATP is produced. Review prior learning on glycolysis and the TCA cycle, emphasizing that NAD⁺ and FAD act as carriers. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to describe how these co‑enzymes transfer hydrogen to the inner mitochondrial membrane and predict the resulting ATP yield.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students label a blank diagram of the inner mitochondrial membrane with Complex I–IV.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Explain NAD⁺/FAD redox reactions and entry points of NADH and FADH₂, using slides.
  3. Guided practice (12’) – In pairs, students fill a table showing proton pumping per complex and calculate ATP yield.
  4. Interactive simulation (8’) – Use an online ETC model to visualize electron flow and proton gradient.
  5. Check for understanding (5’) – Quick quiz cards: “Which complex receives electrons from NADH?” etc.
  6. Summary discussion (5’) – Class creates a collective flowchart on chart paper linking electron entry to ATP synthase.
Conclusion:
Recap the distinct pathways of NADH and FADH₂ and their impact on proton pumping and ATP production. Have students write a one‑sentence exit ticket answering: “Why does FADH₂ generate less ATP than NADH?” Assign a short homework worksheet comparing the energy yields of the two carriers.