Teaching the Cycle of Matter

1. Photosynthesis and Cell Respiration

1.1. 6 O2 + C2H12O6 = 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + energy (ATP)

1.2. energy (from sun) + 6 CO2+6 H2O = C6H12O6 + 6 O2

2. Emphasize the Law of Conservation of Matter (and the Law of Conservation of Energy). Matter cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed. It is common to find it difficult to understand that the atoms that make up our bodies, and all other living things are recyled.

3. One way streets in combination

3.1. example map

3.2. Even though these reactions look reversible, the atoms must be in a different location before the backwards reaction can take place.

4. Create a demonstration of the water cycle with a beaker of heated water, an Aluminum foil lid and an ice cube. Demonstrate that the mass of the system remains the same regardless of the state the water is in.