Student will create a journal with a series of entries as if they are a carbon atom.
KEY ELEMENTS TO INCLUDE
Photosynthesis
Cellular Respiration
Oxygen
Water
Glucose
Carbon Dioxide
Roots
Stem
Sunlight/Energy
Release
Absorb
Leaves
Chlorophyll
Chloroplast
ATP
Product
Reactant
SPECIFIC GUIDELINES AND REQUIREMENTS:
Must have a minimum of 7 entries
Each entry must be a minimum of 5 sentences
Written in first person (as the carbon molecule)
Must include all skey elements listed above
Must show understanding of how photosynthesis and cellular respiration are related
Please organize your journal entries neatly within a word processing document. Each entry should be clearly evident and easy to find.
EXAMPLE OF A BACTERIAL CELL DIARY:
(You would need to write as “A day in the life of a carbon atom”)
My dearest diary,
Today was the day of all days. I, being a lone bacterial cell, had many trials to endure. First I had to evade a viral invader. It was trying to hijack my genes for its own reproduction. To end the day, the environment around me became so inhabitable that I had to develop my endospore. I am now in bacterial quarantine until conditions improve.
Entry 1:
Dear Diary,
Today was the beginning of an exciting journey for me, as I finally became a carbon atom. I was absorbed by a beautiful green leaf, full of chlorophyll, through tiny pores called stomata. The sunlight that shone on the leaf provided the energy needed for the process of photosynthesis to take place. Within the chloroplasts of the leaf cells, I joined forces with water and sunlight to produce glucose and oxygen. How wonderful it feels to be a part of such a vital process!
Entry 2:
Dear Diary,
I've been through a transformation today, as the glucose I helped to create during photosynthesis has been transported throughout the plant. Some of it was stored as starch in the roots and stems, while the rest traveled to other parts of the plant to provide energy for growth and reproduction. I am amazed at how my presence as a carbon atom is able to fuel the life of this plant, helping it to thrive.
Entry 3:
Dear Diary,
Today I witnessed a fascinating process called cellular respiration. The plant took in oxygen from its surroundings, and in the tiny mitochondria of its cells, I combined with oxygen and released energy. This energy was then used to produce a molecule called ATP, which is like a power source for the plant. In return, I transformed into carbon dioxide as a waste product, which was then released back into the air.
Entry 4:
Dear Diary,
I find it incredible how interconnected everything in nature is. As carbon dioxide, I ventured out of the plant during respiration, and I soon found myself absorbed by another leaf. This leaf also contained chloroplasts and chlorophyll, and once again, I became a key player in the grand process of photosynthesis. How amazing it is to be continually recycled, allowing life to flourish on Earth.
Entry 5:
Dear Diary,
Today I took a journey underground, as rainwater carried me through the soil. I was absorbed by the roots of a plant, where I rejoined the cycle of life. From the roots, I began my ascent to the leaves, where I provided the necessary carbon atoms for other molecules to be created. I feel so vital and essential in this process, knowing that without me, life would not be sustained.
Entry 6:
Dear Diary,
The sun has been shining brightly these past few days, providing an abundance of energy for photosynthesis to occur. I can feel the excitement in the air as I am absorbed by many leaves, ready to be transformed into glucose once again. It's amazing how sunlight can be converted into the fuel that powers life on Earth. I am honored to play my part in this intricate dance.
Entry 7:
Dear Diary,
As I prepare to end this journal, I reflect on the incredible journey I have had as a carbon atom. From absorbing sunlight to producing glucose, from being released as carbon dioxide to being absorbed back into plants, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment. My existence as a carbon atom has shown me the beauty and interconnectedness of life. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this grand cycle, and I eagerly await the next chapter of my journey.