An Introduction to Photosynthesis – 6.1, 6.2

Plant Structure and Function – Edexcel GCSE (1BI0): Higher Tier

In this course, Dr Matt Ivory (Cardiff University) covers plant structure and function, including topics 6.1-6.10, 6.11B, 6.12-6.13 & 6.14B-6.16B in the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Biology (9-1) Higher Specification. We start (i) by introducing the role plants play in ecosystems as producers, making their own food via photosynthesis (Topics 6.1, 6.2); we then (ii) look into how photosynthesis is impacted by various factors (Topics 6.3, 6.4); as well as (iii) a deep dive into the relationship between light and the rate of photosynthesis (Topics 6.5, 6.6); we then (iv) look into various adaptations such as root hair cells and xylem (Topics 6.7, 6.8a, 6.9); next (v) we look at one structure of the plant in particular, the phloem, and how it transports sugars through the plant (Topics 6.8b, 6.10); we (vi) move onto the leaf and its adaptations (Topics 6.11B, 6.12, 6.13); following (vii) this we look examples of plants adapting to survive in extreme environments (Topics 6.14B); next (viii) we turn to looking at plant hormones, starting with how they coordinate plant growth (Topic 6.15B); and finish up (ix) with the commercial use of plant hormones and chemicals (Topic 6.16B).

An Introduction to Photosynthesis – 6.1, 6.2

In this first mini-lecture, we look at how plants photosynthesise. We look at their vital role in the food chain as producers, then break down the chemistry of photosynthesis and we finish off by looking at what plants do with the products (glucose) made from photosynthesis.