Explain how the structure of phospholipids allows them to form the plasma membrane of cells.

Phospholipids have a hydrophilic head and hydrophobic tails, allowing them to form a bilayer in water where the heads face outward and the tails face inward, creating a barrier.

Compare and contrast saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, including their structure and state at room temperature.

Saturated fatty acids have single bonds between carbon atoms and are solid at room temperature. Unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double bonds, creating kinks, and are liquid at room temperature.

Lipid Structure and Function

9th GradeScience30 min

Learning Objective

I can describe the basic structure and function of lipids in living organisms.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

Lipids

RicochetScience

Guided Notes

6 min

Key concepts students will learn:

•
The four main categories of lipids are triglycerides, phospholipids, steroids, and waxes.
•
Triglycerides are composed of a glycerol molecule bonded with three fatty acids through dehydration synthesis.
•
Phospholipids have a hydrophilic phosphate head and hydrophobic fatty acid tails, making them a major component of plasma membranes.

Practice

10 min

3 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

“Name the four categories of lipids discussed and briefly describe one function of each.”

Teacher Guide

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Answer keys for all questions
Differentiation strategies
Extension activities
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Lipid Structure and Function

Learning Objective

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

Guided Notes

Practice

Exit Ticket

Teacher Guide

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