Create a Concept Map of Biomolecules
Concept maps are a type of graphic organizer that can help you make sense of difficult topics. Biological macromolecules are one of those topics that will require you to have a good mental map of all of the different types of molecules, where they are located, and their functions.
There are four major biomolecules important to life: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. This helpful gif shows how each one of those molecules is made of smaller components called monomers.
Your Assignment:
As a group, construct a concept map that illustrates the major properties, functions and examples of the four groups of molecules. You can use your book and other resources to create a comprehensive graphic, that contains details and sketches. Your map will be created on a whiteboard or posterboard.
The following skeleton can help you get started, but you will need to determine how many details and examples you will need.
| Grading Rubric | |||||
| 4 pts | 3 pts | 2 pts | 1 pt | ||
| Biomolecules | Carbohydrates | Topic has 10-20 accurate details which include examples, definitions, and locations or functions, subtopics are included, includes1-2 sketches per topic |
Topic has 5-9 details which include examples, definitions, and locations or functions, subtopics are included. May include minor errors with details. Includes at least 1 sketch. |
Topic has at least 4 details which include examples, definitions, and locations or functions, subtopics are included, some errors in details, sketches not included | Fewer than four accurate details, major errors in details and examples. |
| Lipids | |||||
| Proteins | |||||
| Nucleic Acids | |||||
| Overall Organization | Graphic organizer is a map (not a list or outline), individual details are short phrases and are linked to other details. Map uses color or shapes to make it easy for reader to follow. | Graphic is mostly mapped, though some details are listed and not linked to other details. Somewhat difficult to follow, or minor problems with organization. | Graphic is not well mapped, created as lists or as paragraphs, details are not linked, but may be included otherwise, somewhat difficult to read or follow. | Graphic is poorly organized, difficult to following, lacking links or clarity. | |
Other Resources on Biomolecules
Slides Biological Macromolecules | Guided Notes
Biomolecules Boxing - students make boxes showing the four biomolecules of life and use the boxes to practice structure and functions
Enzyme Lab - use liver to show how catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide into oxygen and water, bubbling is used to measure the reaction at different temperatures.
Analyzing Graphics - Enzymes - shows substrates and enzyme interactions and explores competitive inhibition
Observe Catalase Activity in Yeast - create sodium alginate spheres to observe how catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide