Practical Science for 11-16s: Photosynthesis
Monday 8th February 2027
10-12am
Location: Wesley Hall, Crookes, Sheffield.
Details
Students will be supported to evaluate and compare two methods for investigating the rate of photosynthesis at different light intensities:
- The evolution of oxygen from a water plant and
- The use of algal balls and bicarbonate indicator to investigate the absorption of carbon dioxide.
They will also have opportunities to learn about stomata and gas exchange, and to investigate how wavelengths of light affect the rate of photosynthesis. They will be supported to develop the experimental skills that are assessed in IGCSE examinations as well as data collection and graphical representation of data. They will have opportunities to further their knowledge and understanding of photosynthesis, plant biology and the photosynthesis equation, and to develop exam technique and understanding of key words and terminology.
All tasks are carefully differentiated to allow students at any stage of their IGCSE journey to access learning at a level that is suitable to them individually.
Relevant curriculum links
(Opportunities provided, if appropriate, on an individual basis)
Edexcel IGCSE Biology (4BI1):
2.18 understand the process of photosynthesis and its importance in the conversion of light energy to chemical energy
2.19 know the word equation and the balanced chemical symbol equation for photosynthesis
2.23 practical: investigate photosynthesis, showing the evolution of oxygen from a water plant, and the requirement of light
Cambridge IGCSE Biology (CAIE 0970):
6.1 - 1 Describe photosynthesis as the process by which plants synthesise carbohydrates from raw materials using energy from light
6.1 - 2 State the word equation for photosynthesis as: carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen
6.1 - 7 Investigate the need for chlorophyll, light for photosynthesis, using
appropriate controls
6.1 -8 Investigate and describe the effects of varying light intensity on the rate of photosynthesis
Included with your booking:
- Small-group teaching (maximum 10 students) from Amanda, an experienced IGCSE science specialist, qualified teacher (PGCE, QTS) and STEAM Impact Award winner.
- Practical investigations using specialist laboratory equipment and materials.
- Carefully designed activities that develop practical skills, scientific understanding and exam confidence.
- Take-home exam questions, mark schemes and model answers linked directly to the practical work completed during the session.
Registration
Upon booking you will receive an automated receipt of your payment by email. You will receive a further email from Sparking STEM within one business day, with confirmation of your booking and a link to complete registration for your student(s). Registration will provide you with the opportunity to notify Sparking STEM of any particular needs your child may have.
Please check your spam folder. If you have not heard received confirmation of your booking within one business day please contact Sparking STEM.
Policies
Please read the following policies carefully registrations cannot be processed without agreement to these policies:
By making this booking you are agreeing to the cancellation policy.
