Leaves

Leaves

Pencil and paper
Overview
Using this Resource
Connecting to the Curriculum
Marking Student Responses
Further Resources
This task is about how features of leaves helps it to function.
Plants use sunlight and water to make their food. They make this in their leaves. This process is called photosynthesis.
Use the diagrams to help answer the questions.
 
TOP VIEW SIDE VIEW
 
leaf-veins.png
leaf-waxy-supper-surface.png

a)
 
Explain the function of
  i)
the veins
 
 
 
 
 
  ii)
the waxy layer on the upper surface of the leaf
 

 
 
 
 
b)
How does the shape of the leaf help it trap light energy from the Sun?
 
 
 
 
 
c)
Why is the upper surface of the leaf a darker green than the lower surface?
 
 
 
 
Task administration: 
This task can be completed with pencil and paper.
Level:
5
Curriculum info: 
Science, Knowledge, Living World
Keywords: 
Life processes, leaves, adaptation, features, photosynthesis
Description of task: 
Students explain the function of the veins, waxy layer of the upper surface of the leaf, how the shape of the leaf traps light energy and why the upper surface of the leaf is a darker green than the lower surface.
Curriculum Links: 
Science capabilities
The capabilities focus is brought about by the conversations you have and the questions you ask 
 
Capabilitiy: Use evidence
This resource provides opportunities to discuss using diagrams and text to explain science information.
Science capabilities: 
Use evidence
Answers/responses: 

 

Y10 (06/2001)

a)

i) 
ii)
Bring water (and dissolved minerals) to the leaf/take food from leaf to rest of plant.
Prevent (excessive) water loss/afford some physical protection/waterproof layer.

moderate 
moderate

b)

 

Any 1 of: 

  • Large surface area (to volume).
  • Thin shape allows most cells to be reached by light (from the Sun).

moderate

c)

 

More chloroplasts/chlorophyll found in the upper areas of the leaf.
or
Because the upper surface gets more Sun.

moderate