Lesson Plan: Grade 8 Science, Unit B: Cells and Systems – Osmosis and Diffusion Day One

Objectives: Investigate and describe the role of cells within living things • describe the movement of gases and liquids into and out of cells during diffusion and osmosis, based on concentration differences [Note: This outcome requires a general understanding of processes, not a detailed analysis of mechanisms.] (Unit B, 2.4)

Materials:  Smart Presentation  Lab Booklet with worksheets  Materials for demo: beaker, food coloring, water, eye dropper  Materials for other labs (see lab handout)  Osmosis and Diffusion handout

Introduction: Using the POE (predict, observe, explain) method, demonstrate the “Color the Water” lab. 1. Have the students predict what they think will happen to the food coloring. Have them write this in their lab booklet. Ask for a few predictions, and record them on the Smart Board. 2. Demonstrate the lab, and allow time for students to give record their observations. Ask for a few observations and record them on the Smart Board. 3. Explain the lab using the definition of diffusion, and how it is different from osmosis. (Diffusion: the movement of particles in liquids and gases from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration. Osmosis: diffusion of a solvent, usually water, through a selectively permeable membrane.) Show a visual of the difference and ask questions to check for understanding. (15 minutes)

Lesson: 1. Introduce the labs to the students. Let them know that the only have today to work on it. 2. In their table groups have the students complete each lab. 3. If the groups get done early or are waiting for a station, they can work on their osmosis and diffusion handout. 4. With a few minutes left in class have the students clean up their lab stations. (30 minutes)

Closure: Ask students to share some of their findings. Ask questions about their findings. Go over the difference between osmosis and diffusion. (5 minutes)

Assessment: This lab is a formative project; the students will be given a summative exam on what they’ve learned in this lab latter on in the term.