Innovative Sustainable Living through Photosynthesis
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Innovative Sustainable Living through Photosynthesis

Grade 6Science15 days
★★★★★
4.0 (1 rating)
In the Innovative Sustainable Living through Photosynthesis project, sixth-grade students explore the intricate processes of photosynthesis and its crucial role in ecosystems to create sustainable living models. Through activities like mind mapping, web quests, and design challenges, students apply scientific principles to develop innovations that leverage photosynthesis for environmental benefits. By studying global environmental contexts, students gain insights into how photosynthesis-based technologies can address challenges like global warming. Emphasizing collaboration and inquiry-based learning, the project encourages students to synthesize research into meaningful solutions and articulate their findings effectively.
PhotosynthesisSustainable LivingEcosystemsEnvironmental InnovationEnergy SystemsGlobal Challenges
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we innovate a sustainable living model that leverages the principles of photosynthesis to enhance the cycling of matter and flow of energy, while impacting environmental interactions and Earth's energy systems?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • What is photosynthesis and how does it contribute to the cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems?
  • How can the principles of photosynthesis be applied to develop sustainable living models?
  • In what ways does photosynthesis impact the environment and organism interactions within it?
  • What innovative methods can be developed to enhance sustainability through understanding photosynthesis?
  • How does the balance of photosynthesis and respiration affect the Earth's energy systems?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Understand and explain the process of photosynthesis and its importance in ecosystems.
  • Apply principles of photosynthesis to innovate sustainable living models.
  • Analyze the impact of photosynthesis on environmental interactions and Earth's energy systems.
  • Evaluate methods to enhance sustainability through understanding photosynthesis.
  • Develop and present a scientific explanation of the cycling of matter and flow of energy using photosynthesis.

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)

MS-LS1-6
Primary
Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.Reason: Central to understanding how photosynthesis impacts the cycling of matter and energy essential for the project.
MS-ESS3-3
Primary
Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on the environment.Reason: Essential for exploring how innovations based on photosynthesis can lead to sustainable living models and environmental impact reduction.
MS-LS2-3
Secondary
Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.Reason: Supports understanding of ecosystem interactions crucial for developing sustainable models based on photosynthesis.
MS-LS2-5
Secondary
Evaluate competing design solutions for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services.Reason: Helps in assessing innovative sustainable solutions through photosynthesis with a focus on ecosystems.
MS-ESS3-5
Supporting
Ask questions to clarify evidence of the factors that have caused the rise in global temperatures over the past century.Reason: Relevant for understanding larger environmental contexts which the project may address through innovative photosynthesis models.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Green Innovation Fair

Kick off the project with a school-wide fair where students explore booths showcasing cutting-edge technologies utilizing photosynthesis for sustainable solutions. Each booth features interactive components to engage students' curiosity and spark inquiry into how these innovations can affect their lives.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

Photosynthesis Detective

In this initial activity, students will delve into the mysteries of photosynthesis, unraveling its processes, and understanding its role in ecosystems. They will gather detailed information to form a foundational knowledge of how energy and matter cycle through photosynthesis.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Introduction to photosynthesis through a captivating video or interactive session to ignite interest.
2. Read and discuss key texts about photosynthesis.
3. Create a mind map capturing the key components and processes of photosynthesis.
4. Discuss how photosynthesis contributes to the cycling of matter and energy in ecosystems.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comprehensive mind map outlining photosynthesis processes and its role in cycling matter and energy.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with MS-LS1-6 to understand the role of photosynthesis in matter and energy flow.
Activity 2

Photosynthesis Web Quest

Students will embark on a digital journey to discover real-world applications of photosynthesis in green technologies and sustainable solutions. They will explore curated online resources to gather diverse perspectives and compelling data, which forms the basis of their inspiration board project.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Begin the web quest by accessing a list of curated online resources and websites showcasing innovative uses of photosynthesis in technology and sustainability.
2. Select at least three distinct technologies or projects from the curated list to focus on during the web quest.
3. Conduct thorough research on each selected technology or project, documenting key insights, images, and data that highlight how photosynthesis is leveraged.
4. Organize the collected information into an engaging inspiration board, either digitally or physically, illustrating the innovative uses of photosynthesis for sustainable living.
5. Share and discuss the completed inspiration boards with classmates in an online classroom forum, exploring the various ways photosynthesis supports environmental sustainability.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityAn inspiration board highlighting technologies and practices that apply photosynthesis for sustainable living, sourced from online research.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsConnects with MS-ESS3-3 by exploring innovative methods for environmental impact reduction using photosynthesis through a digital platform.
Activity 3

Ecosystem Energy Explorers

In this activity, students will dive deeper into ecosystems, examining the interaction between living and nonliving components, accentuated by photosynthesis.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Study different ecosystems to identify the role of photosynthesis in their energy flow and matter cycling.
2. Use models to represent the flow of energy and matter in a chosen ecosystem, focusing on photosynthesis’ role.
3. Discuss findings with peers, comparing how photosynthesis impacts various ecosystems.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA model and presentation depicting the flow of energy and matter in ecosystems with a focus on photosynthesis.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsSupports MS-LS2-3 by developing models to describe energy and matter cycling in ecosystems.
Activity 4

Sustainable Design Challenge

Building on their knowledge of photosynthesis, students will design sustainable living models. They are challenged to devise innovative solutions that integrate the principles of photosynthesis, considering environmental and energy impacts.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Brainstorm ideas for sustainable living models that utilize photosynthesis principles.
2. Formulate a proposal outlining how photosynthesis can be integrated into sustainable development models.
3. Design a prototype or detailed plan of the sustainable model.
4. Present the model to the class, highlighting how it addresses sustainability goals.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA proposal and prototype of a sustainable model leveraging photosynthesis.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with MS-ESS3-3 and MS-LS2-5 by applying scientific principles and evaluating design solutions for sustainability.
Activity 5

Global Impact Investigators

In this culminating activity, students will investigate broader environmental contexts and critiques regarding photosynthesis-related innovations, focusing on potential solutions for global sustainability challenges.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research trends in global warming and consider how photosynthesis can be part of mitigating actions.
2. Analyze case studies where photosynthesis has been used in innovative ways to address environmental issues.
3. Develop a scientific explanation that includes data and evidence on how photosynthesis can contribute to solving global challenges.
4. Present findings in a report or digital presentation, addressing the effectiveness of photosynthesis-based solutions in global contexts.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comprehensive report or presentation evaluating the potential global impact of photosynthesis-based innovations.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsSupports MS-ESS3-5 by clarifying evidence on how photosynthesis influences global environmental factors.
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Sustainable Living Project Rubric

Category 1

Understanding of Photosynthesis

Assesses students' grasp of photosynthesis processes and their role in matter and energy cycles within ecosystems.
Criterion 1

Conceptual Understanding

Evaluates the depth of students' understanding of photosynthesis processes and their role in ecosystems.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates comprehensive and insightful understanding of photosynthesis and energy cycles, integrating complex concepts clearly.

Proficient
3 Points

Shows a clear and thorough understanding of photosynthesis with accurate descriptions of its role in ecosystems.

Developing
2 Points

Displays basic understanding with some misconceptions about photosynthesis processes and ecosystem interactions.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows limited understanding of photosynthesis, with major misconceptions and lack of clarity on its role in ecosystems.

Criterion 2

Application of Concepts

Measures ability to apply photosynthesis knowledge innovatively in sustainable models.

Exemplary
4 Points

Applies photosynthesis principles innovatively in sustainable designs, showing creativity and scientific accuracy.

Proficient
3 Points

Accurately applies photosynthesis concepts in models with clear connections to sustainability.

Developing
2 Points

Applies photosynthesis concepts with partial success in relation to sustainability, lacking innovation.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to apply photosynthesis principles to sustainability models.

Category 2

Research and Information Synthesis

Assesses the quality of research conducted and ability to synthesize information into coherent formats.
Criterion 1

Research Depth

Evaluates the students’ ability to gather and utilize diverse sources during information gathering.

Exemplary
4 Points

Employs extensive and varied resources, demonstrating deep engagement with rich, relevant content.

Proficient
3 Points

Uses a range of relevant sources effectively, providing clear insights into project topics.

Developing
2 Points

Incorporates limited sources with some relevance but lacks depth.

Beginning
1 Points

Uses minimal sources, many of which are irrelevant or superficial.

Criterion 2

Information Synthesis

Measures students’ ability to integrate researched information into logical, engaging formats.

Exemplary
4 Points

Synthesizes information creatively and logically into formats that clearly communicate complex ideas and insights.

Proficient
3 Points

Integrates information into coherent formats, with logical organization and clarity.

Developing
2 Points

Organizes information with partial success, shows gaps in logic or clarity.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to synthesize information clearly, lacks logical structure in formats.

Category 3

Collaboration and Presentation Skills

Evaluates students' effectiveness in collaborating with peers and presenting their findings.
Criterion 1

Collaboration

Measures ability and leadership in collaborative learning environments.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exemplary leadership and initiative in collaborative settings, consistently contributing high-quality ideas.

Proficient
3 Points

Contributes effectively in group work, sharing ideas and supporting peers.

Developing
2 Points

Participates in collaborative efforts with occasional contributions.

Beginning
1 Points

Requires support to engage in group work and contribute ideas.

Criterion 2

Presentation Skills

Evaluates clarity, engagement, and effectiveness in presenting project findings.

Exemplary
4 Points

Presents findings clearly and confidently, engaging the audience with insightful visuals and explanations.

Proficient
3 Points

Delivers clear presentations with relevant information and supporting visuals.

Developing
2 Points

Presents information with limited clarity, lacking engagement or coherence.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to convey information clearly, lacks structure in presentation.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

Reflect on how your understanding of photosynthesis has changed throughout the Sustainable Living Project. What was the most surprising or important insight you gained?

Text
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Question 2

On a scale of 1 to 5, how confident do you feel in applying the principles of photosynthesis to innovate sustainable solutions?

Scale
Required
Question 3

Which aspect of photosynthesis do you believe plays the most crucial role in sustainable living models, and why?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
Energy conversion
Carbon cycling
Oxygen production
Impact on ecosystems
Question 4

What challenges did you encounter during the Sustainable Design Challenge, and how did you address them?

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Required
Question 5

Reflect on the Global Impact Investigators activity. How did it shape your perspective on the role of photosynthesis in addressing global challenges?

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Required