Introduction
Picture a situation where a greenhouse owner finds out that some plants are healthy while others are dying off slowly despite the equal distribution of water among them. Your team of junior scientists has been tasked by the owner of the greenhouse with finding out why this is happening.
Do you know how photosynthesis and cellular respiration can influence the survival of plants?
Task
You are part of a team of plant researchers.
Using credible sources from the internet or textbooks, examine the role of photosynthesis and respiration in plant survival.
Your team will develop:
- An infographic on the process of photosynthesis and respiration.
- A table comparing photosynthesis and respiration.
- Three suggestions for the well-being of plants.
Process
Step 1
Analyze the problem and explore the causes for which some plants are not healthy.
Step 2
Research:
- What is photosynthesis?
- What is cellular respiration?
- How are the two related to each other?
- What influences photosynthesis?
Step 3
Prepare a comparison chart.
Step 4
Make an infographic.
Step 5
Conclude the results and recommendations in front of the class.
Resources:
Evaluation
| Criteria | Excellent (4) | Good (3) | Fair (2) | Needs Improvement (1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research | Accurate and thorough | Mostly accurate | Some inaccuracies | Limited information |
| Understanding | Demonstrates deep understanding | Good understanding | Basic understanding | Limited understanding |
| Creativity | Highly engaging and organized | Organized | Some creativity | Minimal effort |
| Collaboration | Excellent teamwork | Good teamwork | Uneven participation | Limited participation |
| Presentation | Clear, confident, well-supported | Clear | Somewhat clear | Difficult to understand |
Conclusion
By doing this experiment, you have realized that photosynthesis and cellular respiration are interrelated processes in which energy production and consumption take place in plants. This knowledge allows us to value the importance of light, water, and carbon dioxide for plant existence. But most importantly, you have found out how scientists apply their findings in practice.
Credits
The following resources were used in developing this WebQuest:
Teacher Page
Grade Level: Grade 8
Subject: Science
Topic: Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration
Time Required: 2–3 periods (45–60 min.)
Learning objectives
By the end of the WebQuest, students will be able to:
- Describe the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
- Identify the relationships between these two processes.
- Determine how environmental factors influence plant survival.
- Make informed recommendations based on online research.
Learning strategy
The WebQuest employs the inquiry-based learning model where students solve a real-life problem, work in groups, analyze online content, and produce a final project.
Materials needed
- Device with internet access
- Google Slides, Canva, or poster paper to make an infographic
- Worksheet for comparison (optional)
Evaluation / Assessment
Students’ performance will be assessed according to the criteria in the Evaluation section and will be determined by:
- Accuracy of information
- Critical thinking
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Presentation