Original author
Resource type
Content area
Use type
Tools
Project name
The unit provides students with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of process and how they can be represented and demonstrated using computer models. Students will learn how a polymer such as starch is broken down to its constituent monomers through the catalyzing action of an enzyme. The variables to explore include the amount of enzyme and substrate as well as making modifications to the model to show how temperature affects the shape of the enzyme as it denatures. Although not named specifically, the enzyme acts like amylase breaking down the substrate starch.
Students will learn how computer models are built and used as testbeds to run simulation experiments. They will also explore the practices of professional practitioners in computational biology. Students will interpret the code of the model and then compare it with what they know about those processes in the natural world. They will argue from evidence using the Claim, Evidence, Reasoning (CER) framework to assess the validity of the model. Finally, students will have the opportunity to modify the model to match their understanding of processes and/or answer new questions.
Resources available:
- Student materials in Google Documents
- Teacher guide in PDF with pacing guide and standards
- Teacher workbook with answer keys