Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: state that ATP is synthesised by: transfer of phosphate in substrate-linked reactions, chemiosmosis in membranes of mitochondria and chloroplasts
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the two main mechanisms of ATP synthesis (substrate‑level phosphorylation and chemiosmotic phosphorylation).
  • Explain how oxidative phosphorylation generates ATP in mitochondria.
  • Explain how photophosphorylation generates ATP in chloroplasts.
  • Compare the locations and key steps of substrate‑level and chemiosmotic ATP synthesis.
  • Apply knowledge to predict the effect of inhibiting electron transport on ATP production.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector and screen
  • PowerPoint slides with ATP synthesis diagrams
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Handout summarising substrate‑level and chemiosmotic pathways
  • Model or printable cut‑outs of mitochondrion and chloroplast
  • Quiz cards for formative checks
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick think‑pair‑share: where does the cell get its energy? Review that ATP is the universal energy currency and recall glycolysis from previous lessons. Explain that today’s success criteria are to identify and compare the two ways cells synthesize ATP and to trace the flow of energy through each pathway.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – students list cellular sites of ATP production and share answers.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – present substrate‑level phosphorylation with glycolysis and citric‑acid‑cycle examples using slides.
  3. Interactive diagram activity (10’) – groups label a schematic of mitochondrion and chloroplast showing electron transport chains and ATP synthase.
  4. Guided inquiry (10’) – explore the chemiosmotic mechanism; students predict outcomes of disrupting the proton gradient.
  5. Formative check (5’) – quick quiz cards/Kahoot to differentiate oxidative vs photophosphorylation.
  6. Summary discussion (5’) – students articulate key differences and write one takeaway on sticky notes.
Conclusion:
Recap the two ATP‑synthesis routes and the essential role of proton gradients. Collect the sticky‑note takeaways as an exit ticket and ask students to write one question they still have. Assign a short worksheet to compare ATP yields from glycolysis, respiration and photosynthesis for homework.