Video summary
Science presenter Jon Chase explains aerobic respiration.
Respiration is a series of chemical reactions that release the energy that cells need to operate. The process takes place in the mitochondria.
Jon uses practical demonstration of the oxidation of a jelly baby in molten potassium chlorate (V) to show how much energy is stored in food.
Teacher Notes
Students could be asked why we eat and breathe. Make clear that food provides the glucose, and breathing the oxygen, necessary for respiration.
Recap the equation for respiration and focus on the similarities and differences between this process and burning (the products and reactants are the same but there is a much slower, more controlled release of energy in respiration).
Ask students why we need to respire. Remind them that it provides the energy necessary for the other six life processes. Students could represent the various elements in a role-play to show how the reactants are broken down and the products are formed.
These short films will be relevant for teaching biology and science in general at KS3 and KS4 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and National 4/5 in Scotland.
An explanation of photosynthesis. video
Jon Chase explains photosynthesis.
Enzymes and active sites. video
Jon Chase demonstrates the action of the enzyme catalase.
Factors that affect germination. video
Jon Chase investigates the effect of temperature, water and oxygen on seed germination.
Food as fuel. video
A screaming jelly baby is demonstrated to show the energy content of food.
Microorganisms and bacteria. video
Personal possessions are swabbed for bacteria which are then cultured on agar plates.
Microscopy. video
Jon Chase describes three different types of microscope.
Mitosis Rap. video
Jon Chase raps about the stages of mitosis.
Osmosis Rap. video
Science presenter Jon Chase raps about osmosis.
Photosynthesis Rap. video
Science presenter Jon Chase raps about photosynthesis.
