Objectives: Chemistry 1Explain why water is essential to life and how the characteristics of polarity and hydrogen bonding are important for this role. More, Chemistry 2Identify the four macromolecules, and define their roles/functions in a cell. More, Chemistry 3Explain the difference between ionic, covalent, and hydrogen bonds, and identify the relative strength of each type of bond. More, Chemistry 4Predict which type of bond would be formed between two (or more) atoms. More, Chemistry 5Describe the relationship between monomers and polymers, and give examples for each type of biological macromolecule listed below: a) Proteins b) Nucleic acids (RNA, DNA) c) Carbohydrates More
- After a short lecture or assigned reading on macromolecules, student groups match macromolecules to these cellular functions:
- Hormones,
- Energy storage,
- Store and use genetic information,
- Provide waterproofing,
- Structural support,
- Control activities of life (e.g., catalyze reactions),
- Allows cell membranes to be selectively permeable.
Clicker questions could be used to collect student answers. Note that students often have difficulty with matching when there is not one-to-one correspondence (e.g., more than one macromolecule has more than one function). (Chemistry 2Identify the four macromolecules, and define their roles/functions in a cell. More)
- After introducing students to macromolecules and their roles in the cell, engage students with one or more of the case studies listed below.
- Chemistry and Macromolecules – A Curious Mission: An Analysis of Martian Molecules – In this case study, students play the role of a NASA scientist tasked with analyzing samples of atmosphere and soil collected on Mars as part of the Mars Curiosity Mission. The case study takes place in the future when samples of the Martian atmosphere and surface have been returned to Earth as part of the fictional Curiosity Mission 5. (Chemistry 1-4Explain why water is essential to life and how the characteristics of polarity and hydrogen bonding are important for this role. More)
- Chemistry and Macromolecules: Rough Games and the Brain – investigates the role of chemical bonds, polarity, and protein structure in head injuries and concussions. (Chemistry 1-5Explain why water is essential to life and how the characteristics of polarity and hydrogen bonding are important for this role. More)