HS - LS2.B (A) - Bioenergetics - ASSIGNED (ACM 1/30/2014)

Module: Bioenergetics

DCI: LS2.B (A) Photosynthesis and cellular respiration (including anaerobic processes) provide most of the energy for life processes.

PE: HS-LS2-3 Construct and revise an explanation based on evidence for the cycling of matter and flow of energy in aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

[Clarification Statement: Emphasis is on conceptual understanding of the role of aerobic and anaerobic respiration in different environments.] [Assessment Boundary: Assessment does not include the specific chemical processes of either aerobic or anaerobic respiration.]

The ideas in this standard are: 

- the energy for life processes come from photosynthesis and cellular respiration 

So the focus, really, is on aerobic and anaerobic respiration, not detailed specifics, but in general terms.  We can ask maybe one question about how photosynthesis and respiration contribute to the functioning of living things.  But, the majority of the assessment needs to focus on the PE.  We can't really have kids construct or revise an explanation, but we can have them choose the best explanation of the four.  We can also have them pick an environment (out of 4) under which aerobic or anaerobic respiration will take place.  Again, we are not comparing/contrasting photosynthesis and cellular respiration.  Nor should it be a strict comparison between aerobic and anaerobic... the bottom line is that no matter the environment, the cycling of matter can take place. 

Possible Question Starters: 

"Which of the following would provide evidence that cells can complete cellular respiration without the presence of oxygen?"

correct answer - cells in oxygen poor conditions are able to produce glucose 

incorrect answer - cells in oxygen poor conditions decrease in size 

"The energy that allows living organisms to function comes from the interaction of which of the following processes?"
correct answer - cellular respiration and photosynthesis

incorrect answer - nutrient absorption and metabolism