Knightly News

Seventh graders wrapped up a unit on plants with a classic experiment about the process of photosynthesis. “I learned even more about what really happens with photosynthesis,” says seventh grader Collin Ehrlich. “This has honestly been one of my favorite things we’ve done so far.” This is the first time science teacher Jessica O’Neal has tasked Middle School students with this experiment, which she previously taught to university students. The experiment is also traditionally part of AP Biology Lab. With a few adjustments, Episcopal seventh graders easily rose to the occasion.

Discovering the Key to Photosynthesis

Students conducted the experiment on the leaves of plants that had been in a dark cabinet for several hours. Without light, photosynthesis was not occurring, and O’Neal warned students that once the leaves were exposed to a light source, the process would quickly begin. “They’re going to come out ready to go,” she advised. Once the leaves were out of the cabinet, students efficiently clipped samples, placed them in a syringe and drew up two different solutions. The seventh graders manipulated the syringe to achieve a vacuum, and the leaf samples sunk to the bottom. Finally, the loaded syringe was placed under a lamp and observed every two minutes. As time passed, leaves started to rise, and students had data to record.

After 20 minutes of observation, students gathered as a group to review. O’Neal challenged them to think about why the leaves rose in some solutions but not others. The savvy young scientists determined that the key to the process was carbon. O’Neal revealed she added baking soda to one solution and not the other, allowing photosynthesis to occur.

Learning More about the World through Science

Whether students are working with university professors through the ESTAAR program, creating structures to withstand earthquakes or exploring the early childhood garden, opportunities for science learning at Episcopal abound. Episcopal faculty create meaningful opportunities for students to delve deeper, including the recent field trip to Costa Rica, an exploration of the LSU lakes and an on-campus litter awareness initiative. Experiences like growing food in the hydroponic greenhouse expose students to scientific concepts without them realizing it. Lessons are challenging, engaging and fun in all divisions. Science learning is a great example of how Episcopal prepares students to be future leaders.

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