5E Lesson:
Macromolecules!
Christina Hill, Sandy Rubbico, Marjorie Miles‐Dozier,
Bonnie Sagraves, Schuyler van Montfrans
Science Math Masters
University of Tampa
NGSS HS‐LS1‐6
Construct and revise an explanation
based on evidence for how carbon,
hydrogen, and oxygen from sugar
molecules may combine with other
elements to form amino acids and/or
other large carbon‐based molecules.
NGSS Practices
Emphasizes Practice
3: Planning and
Conducting An
Investigation
Could also
incorporate Practice
2: Developing and
Using Models
NG Sunshine State
Standards
STANDARD 18: Matter and Energy
Transformation
SC.912.L.18.1 Describe the basic
molecular structures and primary
functions of the four major categories
of biological macromolecules.
5E Lesson Overview
Engagement: video clip – “Molecules Gone Wild (Bio
Style)” and pre‐test
Exploration: lab activity – “Biomolecules in My Food”
Explanation: directed note‐taking in a foldable
Elaboration: case study – “A Can of Bull? Do Energy
Drinks Really Provide a Source of Energy?”
Evaluation: post‐test (same as pre‐test)
Engagement
Exploration
“Biomolecules in My Food”
Lab Activity
Carbohydrates
Glucose (sugar)
Lipids (fats)
Proteins
Nucleic Acids
A summary:
Explanation
4‐flap foldable
Fold
Fold
4 flaps
Cut
Cut
Explanation cont’
Proteins
Carbohydrates
On the front:
• Label each flap with
one of the four types
of macromolecules and
draw a picture or
graphic
Lipids
Nucleic acids
Explanation cont’
On the inside:
What is it used
for in the body?
Examples:
Elaboration
Case Study: “A Can of Bull? Do Energy Drinks Really
Provide a Source of Energy?”
Students work in groups as members of teams of
journalists working for Runner’s World magazine
Research ingredients found in 4 popular energy drinks
Describe what they do for the body (proteins, amino acids,
carbohydrates/sugars, etc.)
Evaluate the marketing claims of the product based on how
its ingredients affect the human body
Present their findings at a mock “meeting” with the
“editor” of Runners World magazine
Evaluation
REVIEW: Use biomolecule
vocabulary cards for student
review
Students complete a multiple
choice post‐test (same as pre‐test)
Individual student data should be
compared to pre‐test scores
Students also complete a Frayer
model index card