Lesson: Organic Chemistry

What are the structures and functions of the major chemical molecules that compose life?

This lesson examines the basics of organic chemistry. It looks at the elements, functions, monomers and polymers that compose the four major organic molecules. These carbon-based chemicals include carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.

BIO.2 The student will investigate and understand the chemical and biochemical principles essential for life. Key concepts include

a) water chemistry and its impact on life processes;

b) the structure and function of macromolecules;

• explain the role and function of the four major categories of macromolecules (lipids, carbohydrates, proteins and nucleic acids).

• identify the functions of different types of proteins and recognize the significance that their conformation play in their functions.

#content #criticalthinking #community #collaboration #communication #creativity

Vocabulary

  • monomer

  • polymer

  • carbohydrate

  • lipid

  • protein

    • structural (hair, nails)

    • transport (hemoglobin, membrane proteins)

    • defense (antibody)

    • enzyme

      • catalyst

    • hormone (insulin)

  • nucleic acid

Warm Ups

Carbon and Water - this relates the atomic structure of carbon to its role in building large, complex organic molecules. #content

What's For Dinner - students analyze a plate of food and identify the components that make up each part of the dish. They are asked to determine which category(ies) of organic compounds are found in each. It also offers a chance to discuss the importance of a balanced, healthy diet and the old adage "You are what you eat." #content #criticalthinking

Organic Molecules - a review of the chemistry and structure/functions of organic molecules.

Enzymes - review the structure, function and relationship between shape/function of enzymes #content

Content & Presentations

Notes

  • Organic Molecules- describes the basic elements, monomer and polymer structure, as well as the functions of the four categories of organic molecules (carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, nucleic acids)

Lecture videos

Part one: Carbon and organic molecules

Part two: Carbohydrates

Part three: Lipids

Part four: Proteins

Part five: Nucleic Acids

Proteins and Enzymes - Notes, Cloze Notes, Presentation (video lecture)

Independent Assignments & Activities

Review WS - Organic Molecules - also as a presentation that can be shared in Classroom

Foldable- use a large sheet of paper and fold/cut it into a document that allows students to interact with the material in a way that is organized differently.#content #creativity

Quick Check: Order Shape Function - students review the monomers/polymers of organic molecules

Lab & Group Activities