Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: describe the structure of nucleotides, including the phosphorylated nucleotide ATP (structural formulae are not expected)
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the three components of a nucleotide (nitrogenous base, five‑carbon sugar, phosphate group).
  • Explain the difference between ribonucleotides and deoxyribonucleotides.
  • Identify the structure of ATP and its role as an energy‑carrier.
  • Compare how nucleotides link to form DNA strands via phosphodiester bonds.
  • Apply knowledge of nucleotide structure to interpret simple diagrams.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint slides with nucleotide diagrams
  • Handout summarising nucleotide components and ATP
  • Model kits or molecular model sets (optional)
  • Whiteboard and markers
  • Exit‑ticket cards
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick question: “What molecules store genetic information and energy in cells?” Review that students already know DNA is made of nucleotides. Explain that today they will dissect the parts of a nucleotide and see why ATP is a special phosphorylated form. Success will be demonstrated by correctly labeling a nucleotide diagram.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students list everything they recall about DNA building blocks.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Present the three‑part structure of nucleotides using slides.
  3. Guided practice (10’) – Whole‑class labeling activity of a blank nucleotide diagram.
  4. ATP focus (8’) – Discuss ATP’s three phosphates and energy release; show hydrolysis equation.
  5. Think‑pair‑share (7’) – Compare ribose vs deoxyribose and explain functional differences.
  6. Formative check (5’) – Quick Kahoot quiz on component identification.
  7. Consolidation (5’) – Summarise key points on board.
Conclusion:
Recap the three components of nucleotides and how ATP fits the phosphorylated pattern. Ask students to write one sentence on an exit ticket describing why ATP is called the cell’s energy currency. Assign a short worksheet to draw and label a nucleotide for homework.