Cycle 1

In previous mySci K-5 units, students have explored the idea that living things are composed of particles that are too small to be seen. They have explored solutions and mixtures, and properties of solids, liquids, and gases. Students have discussed how matter cycles and energy flows in ecosystems on a broad scale, and may have even modeled photosynthesis in 5th grade. In other 6-8 modules, students have the opportunity to explore plant and animal cells, organ systems, ecological models such as food webs, and the cycle of matter and flow of energy on a macroscopic scale.

In this module, Biochemistry, students explore chemical reactions in living systems as they attempt to design photobioreactors using algae and knowledge of photosynthesis. Students begin by answering the guiding question of this cycle, What are living systems made of? They categorize types of macromolecules, and perform tests to identify them. Students also identify career opportunities in the field of biochemistry.

This cycle lays the foundation for the next cycle in the Concept, in which they explore how energy is transferred during chemical reactions, the Law of Conservation of Mass and observable signs of chemical reactions.