| Lesson Plan |
| Grade: |
Date: 25/02/2026 |
| Subject: Biology |
| Lesson Topic: explain the importance of the oxygen dissociation curve at partial pressures of oxygen in the lungs and in respiring tissues |
Learning Objective/s:
- Describe how the partial pressure of O₂ determines haemoglobin saturation using the dissociation curve.
- Explain why the plateau region in the lungs facilitates efficient O₂ loading.
- Analyse how the steep portion and right‑shifts in active tissues promote O₂ unloading.
- Predict the effect of CO₂, pH, temperature and 2,3‑BPG on curve position and oxygen delivery.
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Materials Needed:
- Projector and computer with PowerPoint slides of the O₂‑Hb curve
- Printed worksheet containing the data table and shift‑factor chart
- Whiteboard and markers
- Clicker/online quiz tool for quick checks
- Poster paper and coloured pens for group activity
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Introduction:
Begin with a short video clip of a mountaineer gasping for breath to capture interest. Ask students what they already know about how haemoglobin picks up oxygen in the lungs. State that by the end of the lesson they will be able to explain why the shape and shifts of the oxygen dissociation curve are crucial for matching oxygen supply to demand.
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Lesson Structure:
- Do‑now (5') – 3 multiple‑choice questions on partial pressure and saturation to activate prior knowledge.
- Mini‑lecture (10') – Present the sigmoidal curve, highlight the plateau (lungs) and steep region (tissues) with annotated slides.
- Data‑analysis activity (12') – In pairs, students plot the provided P₀₂ vs. saturation points and identify where loading and unloading occur.
- Shift simulation (10') – Groups receive a set of physiological factors; they create a quick poster showing a right or left shift and its impact.
- Whole‑class discussion (8') – Share posters, connect shifts to lung vs. tissue environments, and use clicker questions for formative checking.
- Exit ticket quiz (5') – One short‑answer question: “Why is a right‑shift advantageous in active muscle?”
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Conclusion:
Summarise how the curve’s shape and its ability to shift ensure efficient oxygen loading in the lungs and unloading in demanding tissues. Collect the exit tickets as a quick retrieval check and assign homework: complete the worksheet on curve shifts and write a brief reflection on how altitude would alter the curve.
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