Green Design: How do leaf structures optimize photosynthesis and promote survival?

One of the major learning objectives established by the American Society of Plant Biologists and the Botanical Society of America has students answer the question: How do plant structures enable life functions? This lesson helps students answer this question with a focus on leaf structure and function and how the anatomy and morphology of the leaf optimizes photosynthesis and promotes survival in various environments. Students are first introduced to the primary structures and cell layers of a typical angiosperm leaf, including differences between monocots and dicots, through an interactive mini-lecture. Then, students in groups are asked to design a leaf based on a provided description. These descriptions include a monocot or dicot designation and specific environmental conditions to which the leaf is adapted. After the leaves have been designed, they are collected and redistributed to new groups. These groups are then asked to analyze the leaf they've been given, determine if it is a monocot or dicot, and determine the environment where this leaf would thrive. Finally, students present and defend their findings to the class. This lesson engages students in leaf structure and function as a means to optimize photosynthesis and promote survival and prepares them for future lessons on photosynthesis and evolution.