Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan
Grade: Date: 25/02/2026
Subject: Biology
Lesson Topic: outline the three main stages of the Calvin cycle: rubisco catalyses the fixation of carbon dioxide by combination with a molecule of ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP), a 5C compound, to yield two molecules of glycerate 3-phosphate (GP), a 3C compound, GP
Learning Objective/s:
  • Describe the three main stages of the Calvin cycle and the role of Rubisco in carbon fixation.
  • Explain the reduction of glycerate‑3‑phosphate to triose phosphate using ATP and NADPH.
  • Illustrate how RuBP is regenerated from triose phosphate and why ATP is required.
  • Compare the inputs and outputs of each stage to the overall stoichiometry of the cycle.
Materials Needed:
  • Projector or interactive whiteboard
  • PowerPoint/Google Slides presentation of the Calvin cycle diagram
  • Printed handout with cycle summary table
  • Molecular model kits (optional) for Rubisco and RuBP
  • Worksheet with short‑answer and diagram‑labeling tasks
  • Clickers or online quiz tool for formative checks
 Introduction:
Begin with a quick video clip showing a leaf’s green colour and ask students what chemical process gives plants this energy. Recall that photosynthesis includes light‑dependent reactions and a set of dark reactions that rebuild carbon skeletons. Today’s success criteria: students will be able to outline each Calvin‑cycle stage, name the key enzymes and state the energy carriers involved.
Lesson Structure:
  1. Do‑now (5’) – Students label a blank Calvin‑cycle diagram on the worksheet.
  2. Mini‑lecture (10’) – Present the three stages with slides, emphasising Rubisco and energy inputs.
  3. Guided inquiry (12’) – In pairs, use molecular models to simulate carbon fixation and reduction, answering cue questions.
  4. Whole‑class discussion (8’) – Compare notes, fill a summary table on the board, and check misconceptions.
  5. Formative quiz (10’) – Clicker questions on inputs/outputs and enzyme functions; immediate feedback.
  6. Exit ticket (5’) – Write one sentence summarising how RuBP is regenerated and why ATP is needed.
Conclusion:
Review the cycle by revisiting the completed diagram and confirming each stage’s key features. Students complete an exit ticket that asks for the net reaction of three CO₂ molecules. For homework, assign a short worksheet to calculate ATP/NADPH requirements for a given number of CO₂ fixes.