Contextualization

Photosynthesis is a crucial biological process in which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight into chemical energy. This is done through the absorption of carbon dioxide and water and, with the help of sunlight, they use them to produce glucose and oxygen. It is a concept that intersects the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics and is essential for life as we know it.

The process of photosynthesis is divided into two main stages: the light-dependent phase (or photochemical) and the dark phase (or chemical). The light-dependent phase occurs in the thylakoids of chloroplasts and involves the absorption of light by chlorophyll molecules. This leads to the splitting of water, a process called water photolysis, resulting in the production of ATP and NADPH. The dark phase occurs in the stroma of chloroplasts and involves the transformation of carbon dioxide into glucose through the Calvin Cycle.

Photosynthesis is vital for life on Earth. It is the main source of oxygen in our atmosphere and is the basis of food chains. Furthermore, it is photosynthesis that keeps carbon dioxide levels in check, ensuring that our planet remains habitable. Therefore, understanding photosynthesis and its components is crucial for the comprehension of various aspects of natural systems on our planet.

In today's world, knowledge of the photosynthesis process is not only an academic matter but also has vast practical implications. With climate change becoming an increasingly imminent reality, the role of photosynthesis in maintaining the balance of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere is of paramount importance. Additionally, photosynthesis is the basis for the development of bioenergy technologies that seek to mimic its process to produce sustainable and environmentally friendly energy.

To deepen your knowledge about this process, we suggest the following reliable sources:

• Book: Biology - Single Volume - José Mariano Amabis and Gilberto Rodrigues Martho. Moderna Publisher.
• Khan Academy Page on Photosynthesis
• Videos on Photosynthesis from the YouTube Channel Biologia Total with Prof. Jubilut

Practical Activity:

Activity Title: Photosynthesis Simulation

Project Objective:

This project aims to allow students to visualize photosynthesis in a playful and interactive way, facilitating the understanding of the process. Additionally, it is expected that students develop teamwork skills, time management, and scientific research.

Detailed Project Description:

Students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 participants. Each group must create a photosynthesis simulation using recyclable and accessible materials. The simulation should be able to demonstrate the stages of photosynthesis, the importance of sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide in this process.

Required Materials:

The materials for the activity will be determined by the students, depending on the creativity and design of the simulation. Recyclable materials are highly encouraged. Some examples may include: cardboard boxes, toilet paper tubes, pieces of colored paper, rubber bands, among others.

Detailed Step-by-Step for Carrying Out the Activity:

Step 1: Brainstorm Each group should meet to brainstorm possible ways to represent the process of photosynthesis through a physical simulation and discuss task division.

Step 2: Research Each group member should conduct research to thoroughly understand the process of photosynthesis and how they can represent it through the simulation.

Step 3: Planning After the research is done, the group should meet again to discuss possibilities and determine the materials needed for the simulation.

Step 4: Simulation Construction The construction of the simulation should be done together, with each group member equally contributing to the project.

Step 5: Testing and Adjustments Once the simulation has been built, the group should test it to ensure it behaves as expected. If necessary, adjustments should be made.

Step 6: Presentation The final simulation will be presented to the teacher and the class, with each group member explaining a part of the process.

Project Deliverables:

Written Report Students must submit a written report covering:

• Introduction: In this section, students should contextualize the topic of photosynthesis, explain its importance for life on Earth, and the reason for the project.

• Development: Here, students should detail their understanding of the photosynthesis process, explain the simulation design, the role of each material used, describe the methodology used in building the simulation, and discuss the results obtained.

• Conclusion: Students should conclude the report with a discussion of the lessons learned, the challenges faced, how they overcame these challenges, and how the activity helped deepen their understanding of photosynthesis.

• Bibliography: The bibliography section should include all sources consulted during the project.

Simulation Students must deliver their physical simulation representing the photosynthesis process. This simulation will be evaluated for its functionality, accurate representation of the process, and the creativity employed.

The project must be completed within one week.