Transport in plants
Sunday, 28 April 2024
Key words: xylem, phloem, stomata
Starter: How could you make this rainbow
coloured rose?
The big picture: “How do plants
transport substances?”
Learning outcomes
To explain how substances are
transported around a plant.
To analyse how the xylem and
phloem vessels are adapted to their
functions.
To evaluate the adaptations of the
leaf to prevent water loss.
Why do plants need transport
systems?
• They are multicellular- this means they
have a higher demand for resources
• Surface area : volume ratio- As
organisms get bigger SA:V ratio gets
smaller. This means diffusion alone is
insufficient to supply resources.
• The rate at which materials are
required- if resources are required
quickly a transport system is needed for
efficient delivery.
What materials do plants exchange
& transport?
• Carbon dioxide
• Oxygen
• Water
• Glucose
• Mineral ions
Task: Explain why each of the above is
required for by plants.
Time allowed: 5 mins
Task
• Create a fact sheet on plant transport.
• You need to include the xylem, phloem and
stomata.
• Diagrams and text should be used.
• Follow the success criteria to reach the
highest level possible.
Support: Separate science text books,
hand outs, phones
Plenary
Exam questions on transport in plants
Time allowed: 12 mins
Peer-assessment
• Quality of written
communication: for
ideas given in a
sensible order and a
comparison made for
geranium and cactus
for each feature
1
• any four features +
explanations from: 4
Peer-assessment
(a)
(i)
root hairs
(ii)
xylem
(iii)
stomata1
(iv)
storage organs 1
phloem 1
(b)
(i)
1
1
23.2
1
(ii)
loss of water (from flask with plant) from leaves /
plant/stomata
1
• via transpiration / via evaporation
1
Resources
Grade
Criteria
D
State the functions of the xylem, phloem and
stomata.
C
Draw diagrams to show how xylem and
phloem are arranged in the stem and roots.
B
Explain the adaptations of plants that live in
dry conditions.
A
Compare the structure of xylem and phloem.
A*
Evaluate how the structure of the xylem and
phloem vessels allow them to effectively
carry out their function.
Challenge
(A-level)
Explain the difference between companion
cells and sieve tube elements in the phloem
Grade achieved:
INT
Included?
Grade
Criteria
D
State the functions of the xylem, phloem and
stomata.
C
Draw diagrams to show how xylem and
phloem are arranged in the stem and roots.
B
Explain the adaptations of plants that live in
dry conditions.
A
Compare the structure of xylem and phloem.
A*
Evaluate how the structure of the xylem and
phloem vessels allow them to effectively
carry out their function.
Challenge
(A-level)
Explain the difference between companion
cells and sieve tube elements in the phloem
Grade achieved:
INT
Included?