https://learn.concord.org/resources/108/cellular-respiration
Cellular respiration is the process by which our bodies convert glucose from food into energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Start by exploring the ATP molecule in 3D, then use molecular models to take a step-by-step tour of the chemical reactants and products in the complex biological processes of glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, the Electron Transport Chain, and ATP synthesis. Follow atoms as they rearrange and become parts of other molecules and witness the production of high-energy ATP molecules.
Note: it is not expected that students memorize every step of glycolysis, the Krebs cycle, or the Electron Transport Chain. The goal of this activity is to have students understand the different reactions of cellular respiration, including the importance of enzymes to the reactions; students should also learn that energy in one form is converted or transferred to other forms and places.
PLEASE NOTE: This resource can be assigned, but student responses will not be saved.
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Performance Expectations
From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes. Students who demonstrate understanding can: Use a model to illustrate that cellular respiration is a chemical process whereby the bonds of food molecules and oxygen molecules are broken and the bonds in new compounds are formed resulting in a net transfer of energy.
Disciplinary Core Ideas
HS-LS1.C Organization for Matter and Energy Flow in Organisms
As a result of these chemical reactions, energy is transferred from one system of interacting molecules to another. Cellular respiration is a chemical process in which the bonds of food molecules and oxygen molecules are broken and new compounds are formed that can transport energy to muscles. Cellular respiration also releases the energy needed to maintain body temperature despite ongoing energy transfer to the surrounding environment.
Science and Engineering Practices
Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Analyzing data in 9–12 builds on K–8 and progresses to introducing more detailed statistical analysis, the comparison of data sets for consistency, and the use of models to generate and analyze data.
Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
Mathematical and computational thinking at the 9–12 level builds on K–8 and progresses to using algebraic thinking and analysis, a range of linear and nonlinear functions including trigonometric functions, exponentials and logarithms, and computational tools for statistical analysis to analyze, represent, and model data. Simple computational simulations are created and used based on mathematical models of basic assumptions. Use mathematical representations of phenomena to describe explanations.
Developing and Using Models
Modeling in 9–12 builds on K–8 and progresses to using, synthesizing, and developing models to predict and show relationships among variables between systems and their components in the natural and designed worlds. Use a model to provide mechanistic accounts of phenomena.
Crosscutting Concepts
Energy and Matter
Energy cannot be created or destroyed—it only moves between one place and another place, between objects and/or fields, or between systems.