Search Science4Inquiry

Enzymes in Action Lesson Overview



The student will predict, investigate, observe, and report on the effects that pH, concentration, and temperature have on catalase enzyme reactions. Students will conduct an experiment in which they will alter the pH, concentration, and temperature of the environment in which catalase enzyme reactions are taking place. Students will be able to describe how changes in these environmental conditions affect the action of the enzymes in living things.

Resources

Download the Lesson Plan

Download the Worksheet

Duration
100 Minutes
Setting
Classroom
Grouping
2-4 students per group
PTI Inquiry
2.5, 2.6, 3.1, 3.5, 4.2, 4.4, 5.2, 5.3, 5.7, 5.8, 6.1, 6.2, 7.1, 7.2 , 7.3, 7.5
Lesson Components Time Inquiry Skills Tech. Used Engage Level Brief Description
Engage 10 min 1.3, 5.2 none 3 Students will observe a demonstration of a catalase reaction between liver and hydrogen peroxide.
Explore 15 min 1.3, 4.3, 5.8, 5.9 none 3 Students will experiment with different enzymes and substrates to understand the structure and function of enzymes.
Explain 10 min 5.2, 5.7 none 2 Students will describe their understanding of how enzymes and substrates interact and how enzymes affect activation energy.
Expand 50 min 2.1, 2.2, 2.5, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.5, 3.7, 7.2 none 3 Students will experiment with altering the pH, concentration, and temperature of the catalase reaction. Students will explain their understanding of how each factor affected the reaction rate.
Evaluate 15 min 5.7 none 1 Students will complete a summative assessment on enzymes.

Level of Student Engagement
1     Low     Listen to lecture, observe the teacher, individual reading, teacher demonstration, teacher-centered instruction
2     Medium     Raise questions, lecture with discussion, record data, make predictions, technology interaction with assistance
3     High     Hands-on activity or inquiry; critique others, draw conclusions, make connections, problem-solve, student-centered

We love your feedback!

Please share your comments (e.g., strengths, areas for improvement, your implementation results if you taught the lesson in your class, and any modifications you made). Thanks!