Lesson Plan

• Describe how chloroplast structural components relate to their roles in light‑dependent and light‑independent reactions.
• Explain why thylakoid stacking in grana enhances photon capture and how unstacked lamellae facilitate electron transport.
• Analyse electron‑micrograph features to infer functional specialisations of chloroplast regions.
• Apply knowledge of chloroplast structure to predict the impact of structural damage on photosynthetic efficiency.

• Projector and screen
• PowerPoint slides with labelled chloroplast diagrams and electron micrographs
• Printed worksheet containing a structure‑function table
• 3‑D chloroplast model or laminated diagram
• Whiteboard and markers
• Exit‑ticket cards for the conclusion activity

Begin with a striking electron‑micrograph image of a chloroplast and ask students what they notice about its internal architecture. Briefly recap prior learning on basic chloroplast parts (envelope, stroma, thylakoids). State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to link each structural feature to its specific photosynthetic function.

1. Do‑Now (5 min): Quick sketch of a chloroplast; students label envelope, stroma, grana, and lamellae.
2. Mini‑lecture (10 min): Present annotated diagrams and micrographs, highlighting key structural features.
3. Guided Analysis (12 min): In pairs, students match each structure to its function using the worksheet; teacher circulates to check understanding.
4. Interactive Model Demo (8 min): Use the 3‑D model to demonstrate how stacked thylakoids increase surface area for light harvesting and how unstacked lamellae house ATP synthase.
5. Check for Understanding (5 min): Whole‑class “concept‑map” on the board linking structures to light‑dependent and Calvin‑cycle processes.
6. Application Activity (10 min): Students answer scenario questions (e.g., “What would happen if the outer membrane were damaged?”) and record predictions.
7. Recap & Exit Ticket (5 min): Students write one structure‑function pair on a card and submit as they leave.

Summarise how the chloroplast’s compartmentalisation enables efficient light capture, energy conversion, and carbon fixation. Collect exit tickets to gauge which structure‑function links need reinforcement. Assign homework: create a one‑page infographic that visually connects each chloroplast component to its role in photosynthesis.