Macromolecules

Directions: View ONE of the two videos (each video contains 2 macromolecule experiments) above. Be sure to record the data generated by the experiments.

Write a formal lab report on BOTH macromolecule experiments in the video you chose as if you are recording your own work in the laboratory. A formal lab report includes:

title

purpose

hypothesis statement for each substance tested

methods section (describing what was done/ how the experiment was performed)

results section (including a table)

conclusions section.

Submission: To submit your file, choose the link titled, Lab Report 3: Macromolecules , above. Use the “Browse My Computer” button in the Attach File area to attach your document. Be sure to complete your submission by choosing the “Submit” button at the bottom of the screen

Introduction

Your work in this module is dedicated to understanding four important organic macromolecules of life. These 4 macromolecules (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids) make up 96% of your body mass. At the cellular level, these molecules play critical roles in the structure and the overall function of the cell. Organisms, environments, and molecules function as they do largely because of how they are built (the structures of which they are composed). As mentioned in Module 1, this is a building course, so you want to bring what you learned in Module 2 (Chemistry) to your work on this module.

For the laboratory this week, you will watch one of two demonstration videos of a former student testing for either protein, starch, sugar, or lipid (fats) as we would in the classroom. Since these chemicals are too expensive and dangerous to work with at home, you watch a demonstration video of the lab being performed. As you watch, think about how the scientific method applies to her work. Be sure to record your results in a table as mentioned in the video. Then follow the instructions in the assignment area to complete your first formal lab report.

Learning Outcomes

This module addresses the following Course Learning Outcomes listed in the Syllabus for this course:

Demonstrate knowledge of biological principles.

Demonstrate knowledge of scientific method.

Communicate scientific ideas through oral or written assignments.

Interpret scientific models such as formulas, graphs and tables.

Demonstrate problem solving methods in situations that are encountered outside of the classroom.

Demonstrate proper laboratory technique including safety in the use and care of laboratory equipment and supplies.

Module Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

Describe several simple tests for important organic macromolecules

Develop written communication skills

Compose a preliminary formal lab report.

Readings and Resources

There are no textbook readings for this module.

Resource: Macromolecule Course Videos (see below)

Resource: The Biology Primer website