Printable Resources
It’s NOT Easy Being Green Algae!
Student Resources:
Appendix A: Pre/Post-Test
Appendix B: Engineering Design Challenge and Rubric
Appendix C: Material Price List
Appendix D: Decision Analysis Matrix
Appendix E: “Is Algae the Fuel of the Future?” Article Analysis
Appendix F: PSA Rubric
Appendix G: Laboratory Report Rubric
Teacher Resources:
Appendix H:
Appendix I:
Appendix J:
Appendix K:
Appendix L:
Pre/Post-Test KEY
Is Algae the Fuel of the Future? Article Analysis KEY
Resource Hyperlinks
Teaching Notes
Vacuum Filtration Set-Up Diagram
Students with Special Needs Resources:
Appendix A-2: Pre/Post-Test
Appendix E-2: “Is Algae the Fuel of the Future?” Article Analysis
Appendix G-2: Laboratory Report Rubric
Appendix I-2: “Is Algae the Fuel of the Future?” Article Analysis KEY
Appendix M-2: Vocabulary
Appendix N-2: Vocabulary KEY
Appendix O-2: Vocabulary Cards
www.daytonregionalstemcenter.org
Appendix A: Pre/Post-Test
Name: __________________________________Date: _________________Period: ________
1. Photosynthesis is a chemical process that converts carbon dioxide and water into:
A. water and oxygen
B. oxygen and glucose
C. glucose and water
D. carbon dioxide and glucose.
2. If a container containing 2L of water contains 700 mg of green algae, calculate the density of
the algae in water using milligrams per liter.
A. 2.85 * 10^-3 mg/L
B. 1.4 * 10^3 mg/L
C. 3.5*10^2mg/L
D. 6.98*10^2 mg/L
3. Which of the following events in history led to the use of oil as a source of fuel?
A. The Industrial Revolution
B. Mining for coal
C. Drilling for petroleum
D. Introduction of motorized cars
E. All of the above
4. In order for cellular respiration to occur in animals, which of the following is needed?
A. Soil
B. Oxygen
C. Carbon Dioxide
D. Water
E. Both A and B
F. All of the above
5. After 1 day of growth our 600 mL of water contains 387 mg of algae growth. After 3 days of
growth our water contains 511 mg. Find the average rate of change in algae growth per day.
A. 44.5 mg/day
B. 62 mg/day
C. 213 mg/day
D. 124 mg/day
Draft: 2/9/2016
Page 2
6. Using the information from #5 complete the table showing the amount of algae.
Days of Growth
Amount of Algae
1
387 mg
2
3
511 mg
4
7. As you watch the news, you hear the word “sustainability.” In the space below, give an
example of a sustainable resource and domain specific vocabulary to describe what makes
a resource is sustainable.
8. List and explain two reasons for developing sustainable alternatives to burning fossil fuels.
9. As a biochemical engineer your task is to develop a sustainable
source of energy derived from plant sources for your community.
You have access to a 10-acre farm with good fertile soil and a
shallow 2-acre pond. Analyze the table on the right. Then identify
and explain two specific crops that you would propose for use as a
sustainable source of energy.
Crop
Oil Yield
(gallons/acre)
Corn
18
Cotton
35
Soybean
48
Mustard Seed
61
Sunflower
102
Rapeseed/Canola
127
Jatropha
202
Oil Palm
635
Algae
(10𝑔/𝑚2 /𝑑𝑎𝑦 at 15% TAG)
Algae
(50𝑔/𝑚2 /𝑑𝑎𝑦 at 50% TAG)
1,200
10,000
10. Compare and contrast the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, use domain
specific vocabulary.
Draft: 2/9/2016
Page 3
Appendix B: Engineering Design Challenge and Rubric
Name: _____________________________Date: _________________Period: ______
Engineering Design Challenge
Your team of biochemical engineers is focused on the issue of fossil fuel resources depletion in
America. Your client, Green-n-Go, is interested in utilizing green algae for a bio-fuel resource.
Therefore, your engineering team is tasked with creating an algae growth chamber prototype that
accelerates green algae production. You have been given a budget of $500.00 to construct an
effective prototype following the engineering design process. Upon completion of the challenge, your
design and supporting research must be presented to Green-n-Go in the form of a lab report and
infomercial.
Determine Design Challenge Goals: As a team, refer to the “Decision Analysis Matrix
Instructions” and the Decision Analysis Matrix” to determine goals for completing the
engineering design challenge.
Brainstorming Designs: Keeping in mind your team’s design goals, individually plan and
sketch your own conceptual design idea with needed materials listed, dimensions labeled and
details and reasoning noted. Then present your idea to the team as it is scored on the decision
analysis matrix.
Final Design: Use the decision analysis matrix results as a guide for choosing a team final
design. Sketch the team’s conceptual design plan with needed materials listed, dimensions
labeled and details and reasoning noted. Save this sketch for your final report.
Technical Aspect of Design: Describe the math, science and engineering principles that you
applied in designing your project. Describe the logical reasoning as to why you chose one
shape over another. How does this project connect to what you are learning in class?
Testing the Design: Determine a method for testing your design, including specific information
regarding how your algae weighed. Record results, noting details regarding any modifications
made to the prototype throughout the testing time.
Analyze and Report Results: Analyze your recorded data, and plan your presentation.
Engineering Design Challenge Rubric:
4
3
Design uses four or more
different types of materials.
Total material cost is less
than $500.
Design uses three different
types of materials. Total
material cost is $500.
Design uses two different
types of materials. Total
material cost is more than
$500.
Design uses one type of
material. Total material
cost is more than $500.
Provides justification,
application, or synthesis
accurately documenting
Documentation testing methods (related to
of Evidence the engineering design
process) and results with
diagram, chart, table, and/or
spreadsheet formats.
Accurate and thorough
documentation of all testing
methods (related to the
engineering design
process) and results with
diagram, chart, table, and/or
spreadsheet formats.
Minor inconsistencies
evident in documentation of
testing methods (related to
the engineering design
process) and results with
diagram, chart, table, and/or
spreadsheet formats.
Inconsistent documentation
of testing methods (related
to the engineering design
process) and results with
diagram, chart, table, and/or
spreadsheet formats.
Synthesizes detailed
records of the prototype’s
evolution based on the
Engineering iterative nature of the
Design Process engineering design process.
Provides detailed records of
the prototype’s evolution
based on the iterative
nature of the engineering
design process.
Provides records of the
prototype’s evolution based
on the iterative nature of the
engineering design process.
Provides records of the
prototype’s evolution based
on the iterative nature of the
engineering design process.
Replication of final design
would require additional
information.
Final design cannot be
replicated.
Building
Materials
Final design can be
replicated.
Draft: 2/9/2016
Final design can be
replicated.
2
1
Page 4
Appendix C: Material Price List
Team Algae Growing Chamber Total Budget = $500.00
Material
Gatorade Bottle
$100.00
24 oz Glad Container
$150.00
6 Inch Piece of Aluminum Foil
$10.00
Gallon Size Ziploc Freezer Bag
$50.00
Aluminum Pie Plate
$25.00
Drinking Straw
$15.00
Balloon
$20.00
Empty Milk Carton
Craft Stick
Aquarium Gravel
$125.00
$15.00
$100.00
Pipe Cleaners
$15.00
4-inch Piece of PVC
$50.00
Active Dry Yeast Packet
$60.00
Alka-Seltzer Tablet
$60.00
Plastic Flexible Tubing
$80.00
18g or 1 tbs. Miracle Grow
Draft: 2/9/2016
Price
$110.00
Hot Glue Gun
$50.00
Hot Glue Stick
$10.00
Piece of Sand Paper
$20.00
Roll of Scotch Tape
$40.00
Roll of Masking Tape
$60.00
500 ml Beaker
$25.00
Distilled Water (1 liter)
$150.00
5g of Algae
$125.00
Page 5
Appendix D: Decision Analysis Matrix
Decision Analysis Techniques in Engineering Design
Method of Weighted Factors
Margaret Pinnell, PhD
This method of decision analysis can be used whenever a difficult choice must be made
such as choosing a college or a certain product, etc. Step-by-step instructions for using
this method as a tool for assessing design plan ideas are provided below.
Identifying the objectives and constraints for a particular topic can assist in make a final
decision. Safety should always be on the list, but some other items might include
aesthetics, cost, ease of maintenance, performance (ability to function as intended),
recyclability, etc.
Instructions for Using the Matrix:
1. Identifying goals, or objectives and constraints. Objectives are components that would be nice to
have include, while constraints are components that must be included
2. Determine the relative importance of each of these goals by assigning each a weight from 1–10: 10
being of most importance, and 1 being of little importance (may be nice to have, but doesn’t really
matter). Because constraints are required components, they will be assigned a weight of 10. Note
that some weights may be used more than once, while others not at all.
3. As a team, discuss each conceptual design and rank it from 1-3 according its ability to meet each
identified goal: 3 being completely meeting the goal, and 1 not meeting the goal. Note some designs
may have equal performance and may achieve the same rating; an example is shown below.
4. For each design, multiply each attributed goal-weighting factor by the determined ranking. Then add
to find the total value for the design.
5. The design scoring highest total value may be considered the “best.” Keep in mind though, that there
is a significant amount of subjectivity to this approach. Therefore, if the total values for two designs
are very close, these designs should be considered more deeply. Note that it is reasonable to pull a
high-ranking component from a design scoring a lower total value and incorporate it into the final
design plan.
An example of a decision analysis regarding the purchase of a car is provided on the next page. This
example was completed through the eyes of a college student who is looking for a new car to transport
her from home to school. The ranking was done without any research, but certainly actual values could
be obtained from reliable resources regarding relative safety, cost, gas mileage etc. If this information is
available, this research should be done, but this is just a quick example. The college student, with input
from her parents, identified the following factors that would help her decide which car to purchase. They
decided that safety was, by far, the most important factor.
Since this was for a college student, cost-related issues including price of the car, cost of
upkeep/maintenance and gas mileage were all very important as well. The student didn’t really have
more than a suitcase that she would need to carry, so cargo room was not that important, but would be
nice to have in case she did have some larger things to bring home. Also, since she only needed the car
to last her through her 4 (or 5) years in college, the “life span” of the car was only marginally important.
The college student protested regarding aesthetics, after all, she wanted a cool ride, so aesthetics were
pretty important to the student. The student considered three cars available at a dealer close to her
home.
Draft: 2/9/2016
Page 6
Resultant Sheet:
Decision Analysis Matrix
1. Fill in your design objectives. After all group members have presented their design ideas, use the numerical system below to score
each design against the constraints and objectives.
3 = totally meets the goal
2 = somewhat meets the goal
1 = does not meet the goal
2. Add the values for each design to determine a total score. The design with the highest score may be considered the “best.” Keep in
mind though, that some of the scoring is based on opinion, so if two designs have close values, you may want to consider these
designs a little more deeply, or combine their best attributes.
Car 1
Goals
(Constraints and Objectives)
Car 2
Value
Car 3
Value
Value
Weight
Score
safety
10
3
30
1
10
2
20
Gas mileage
9
2
18
1
9
3
27
cargo room
2
2
4
2
4
1
3
seating
5
3
15
2
10
1
5
aesthetics
7
3
21
2
14
1
7
cost
9
2
18
3
27
1
9
“life-span”
5
2
10
1
5
3
15
maintenance
6
3
18
2
12
3
18
TOTAL VALUE
(weight x score)
Score
(weight x score)
Score
(weight x score)
Sum of values:
Sum of values:
Sum of values:
134
91
103
_______
_______
_______
Score
Value
(weight x score)
Sum of values:
_______
Results of this decision analysis suggest that car 1 is the best choice for the student. However,
had these factors been weighted differently, the results might have changed.
Draft: 2/9/2016
Page 7
Decision Analysis Matrix
Draft: 2/9/2016
2 = somewhat meets the goal
1 = does not meet the goal
TOTAL VALUE
Goals
(Constraints and Objectives)
Weight
Score
_______
Sum of values:
(weight x score)
Value
Score
_______
Sum of values:
(weight x score)
Value
__________________
Name
__________________
Name
Design 2
Design 1
Score
Name
_______
Sum of values:
(weight x score)
Value
__________________
Design 3
Score
Name
_______
Sum of values:
(weight x score)
Value
__________________
Design 4
3. Add the values for each design to determine a total score. The design with the highest score may be considered the “best.” Keep in
mind though, that some of the scoring is based on opinion, so if two designs have close values, you may want to consider these
designs a little more deeply, or combine their best attributes.
3 = totally meets the goal
1. Fill in your design objectives (goals) and weight each goal on a scale of 1-10 based on its importance; 10 being the most and 1 being
the least important.
2. After all team members have presented their design ideas, use the numerical system below to score each design against the
constraints and objectives.
Team Prototype Decision Analysis Matrix
Page 8
Appendix E: “Is Algae the Biofuel of the Future?” Article Analysis
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=algae-biofuel-of-future
Name: _____________________________Date: _________________Period: ______
1. What algae oil projections did Sapphire Energy make for the years 2018 and 2020?
2. Explain what is meant by “new concepts” of algae.
3. Describe a benefit of growing algae in non-potable water.
4. Explain and describe the benefits of the unique technology used at Sapphire Energy.
5. Sapphire Energy’s algae-based jet fuel was tested on a commercial airline. List the testing results.
Describe one implication Continental Airlines experienced as a result of the testing.
6. List and describe a benefit of using algae as a fuel feedstock.
7. List and describe two ways that companies are attempting to obtain more CO2 for facilitating greater
algae growth and production.
8. Explain conditions suitable for effective algae growth.
9. Describe Tim Zenk’s suggestions for future policy changes. Identify a positive and a negative
reaction to these suggestions.
Draft: 2/9/2016
Page 9
Appendix F: Team PSA Rubric
Name: _____________________________Date: _________________Period: ______
Team Name: _________________________________________________________________
Length of
infomercial
Organization
Relevancy
Draft: 2/9/2016
4
3
2
1
PSA is 4 minutes
or 6 minutes total.
All members are
featured.
PSA is 4 minutes
or 6 minutes total.
All members are
featured.
PSA is 3 minutes
or 7 minutes total.
All members are
featured.
PSA is 2 or less
minutes or more
than 7 minutes
total – OR- not all
members are
featured.
The team
presents a claim
and findings,
emphasizing 3
points on the
importance of
algae as a
sustainable
biofuel.
The team
presents a claim
and findings,
emphasizing 3
points on the
importance of
algae as a
sustainable
biofuel.
The team
presents claims
and findings
emphasizing 2
points on the
importance of
algae as a
sustainable
biofuel.
The team
presents claims
and findings
emphasizing less
than 2 points on
the importance of
algae as a
sustainable
biofuel.
Ideas are
focused, and
include all of the
following:
Ideas are focused,
and include all of
the following:
Ideas are focused,
and include 3 of
the following:
Ideas are
confusing, but
include 2 of the
following:
 Relevant
evidence
 Valid reasoning
 Well-chosen
details
 Relevant
evidence.
 Valid reasoning.
 Well-chosen
details.
 Relevant
evidence
 Valid reasoning
 Well-chosen
details
 Relevant
evidence
 Valid reasoning
 Well-chosen
details.
Page 10
Appendix G: Laboratory Report Rubric
Name: _____________________________Date: _________________Period: ______
Introduction
Design
Selection
Final Design
Results
Conclusions
References
4
3
2
1
Includes all of the
following:

Problem Statement,

Background
research,

Defined objective &
constraints

Need for designing
such a prototype.
Includes all of the
following:

Problem Statement,

Background
research,

Defined objectives
& constraints
Includes 2 of the
following:

Problem Statement,

Background
research

Defined objectives
& constraints
Includes 1 of the following:

Problem Statement

Background research

Defined objectives &
constraints
Includes the following:

4 design sketches

Design choice and
matrix explanation
Includes the following:

3 design sketches

Design choice and
matrix explanation


Includes all of the
following:

Final photo of
prototype

Dimensions

Materials used and
reasoning

Computer
generated model
Includes all of the
following:

Final photo/ sketch
of prototype

Dimensions,

Materials used and
reasoning
Includes 2 of the
following:

Final photo/ sketch
of prototype

Dimensions

Materials used and
reasoning
Includes 1 of the following:

Final photo/ sketch of
prototype

Dimensions

Materials used and
reasoning
Includes a total of 4 or
more charts and/ or
graphs.
Includes a total of 3
charts and/ or graphs.
Includes a total 2 charts
and/ or graphs.
Includes a total of 1 chart
and/or graph.
Includes synthesis of:

An evaluation of the
final design,

How well the final
design met
objectives

A summary of key
findings.

4 suggestions for
improvements.

Potential redesign
of prototype

Examples of future
use of prototype
Includes:

An evaluation of the
final design,

How well the final
design met
objectives

A summary of key
findings.

3 suggestions for
improvements.

Potential redesign
of prototype

Examples of future
use of prototype
Includes:

An evaluation of the
final design.

How well the final
design met
objectives.

A summary of key
findings.

2 suggestions for
improvements.

Potential redesign
of prototype

Examples of future
use of prototype
Includes:

An evaluation of the
final design.

How well the final
design met objectives.

A summary of key
findings.

1 suggestion for
improvement.

Potential redesign of
prototype.

Examples of future
use of prototype.
Properly cites more than
2 resources from:

Book sources

Journal articles

Credible website.
Properly cites 2
resources from:

Book sources

Journal articles

Credible website.
Cites 2 resources with
minor errors from:

Book sources

Journal articles

Credible website.
Improperly cites 2
resources with minor
errors from:

Book sources

Journal articles

Credible website.
Draft: 2/9/2016
Includes the following:
2 design sketches
Design choice and
matrix explanation


Includes the following:
2 design sketches
NO Design choice
and matrix
explanation
Page 11
Appendix H: Pre/Post-Test KEY
1. Photosynthesis is a chemical process that converts carbon dioxide and water into:
A. water and oxygen
B. oxygen and glucose
C. glucose and water
D. carbon dioxide and glucose.
2. If a container containing 2L of water contains 700 mg of green algae, calculate the density of
the algae in water using milligrams per liter.
A. 2.85 * 10^-3 mg/L
RATE= mg/ liter
B. 1.4 * 10^3 mg/L
700mg/2L = 350 mg/L
C. 3.5*10^2mg/L
Scientific Notation  3.5 X 102
D. 6.98*10^2 mg/L
3. Which of the following events in history led to the use of oil as a source of fuel?
A. The Industrial Revolution
B. Mining for coal
C. Drilling for petroleum
D. Introduction of motorized cars
E. All of the above
4. In order for cellular respiration to occur in animals, which of the following is needed?
A. Soil
B. Oxygen
C. Carbon Dioxide
D. Water
E. Both A and B
F. All of the above
5. After 1 day of growth our 600 mL of water contains 387 mg of algae growth. After 3 days of
growth our water contains 511 mg. Find the average rate of change in algae growth per day.
A. 44.5 mg/day
Slope = Change in growth
B. 62 mg/day
Change in days
C. 213 mg/day
511 mg – 387mg
124 mg
62 mg/ day
D. 124 mg/day
Draft: 2/9/2016
Page 12
6. Using the information from #5 complete the table showing the amount of algae.
Days of Growth
Amount of Algae
1
387 mg
2
449 mg
3
511 mg
4
573 mg
Using information form #5:
Just add 62 mg for every da
on the chart.
387 + 62 =449 mg
449 +62 = 511 mg
511 +62 = 573 mg
7. As you watch the news, you hear the word “sustainability.” In the space below, give an
example of a sustainable resource and domain specific vocabulary to describe what makes
a resource is sustainable.
Answers will vary. An example of a 2 point answer is:
An example of a sustainable resource would be solar power. Solar power is sustainable
because it is harnessing unlimited energy from the sun to create power.
2 points
Answer includes an
example of sustainable
resource and a
description of the
sustainability of this
resource.
1 point
Answer includes only
an example of
sustainable resource OR - a description of
the sustainability of
this resource.
8. List and explain two reasons for developing sustainable alternatives to burning fossil fuels.
Answers will vary. An example of a 4 point answer is:
Two reasons for a sustainable alternative to burning fossil fuels are: 1. to protect the
environment from harmful toxins and pollutions. Burning fossil fuels creates an abundance of
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere creating a hole in ozone and other problems. 2. We are
going to run out of fossil fuels and will need a form of energy to run daily activities. Drilling for
oil and burning coal is a staple in the world today and we are using this resource up at an
alarming rate. Pretty soon we are going to run out of this resource.
4 points
Answer includes all
of the following :
Identifying 2 reasons
provides 2
explanations for a
sustainable
alternative to
burning fossil fuels
Draft: 2/9/2016
3 points
Answer includes 3 of
the following :
Identifying 2 reasons
provides 2
explanations for a
sustainable
alternative to
burning fossil fuels
2 points
Answer includes 2 of
the following :
Identifying 2 reasons
provides 2
explanations for a
sustainable
alternative to
burning fossil fuels
1 point
Answer includes 1 of
the following :
Identifying 2 reasons
provides 2
explanations for a
sustainable
alternative to
burning fossil fuels
Page 13
9. As a biochemical engineer your task is to develop a sustainable
source of energy derived from plant sources for your community.
You have access to a 10-acre farm with good fertile soil and a
shallow 2-acre pond. Analyze the table on the right. Then identify
and explain two specific crops that you would propose for use as a
sustainable source of energy.
Answers will vary. An example of a 2 point answer is:
As a biochemical engineer in charge of sustainable energy, for my
community I would grow sunflowers on the land and harvest algae
(50𝑔/𝑚2 /𝑑𝑎𝑦 at 50% TAG) in the pond. The sunflowers will produce
1,020 gallons of oil and the algae will produce 20,000 gal a day. The
water in the pond will grow algae as well as water the 10 –acres of
sunflowers.
2 points
Answer will include BOTH a
specific crop (s) and an
explanation of choice.
Oil Yield
Crop
(gallons/acre)
Corn
18
Cotton
35
Soybean
48
Mustard Seed
61
Sunflower
102
Rapeseed/Canola
127
Jatropha
202
Oil Palm
635
Algae
(10𝑔/𝑚2 /𝑑𝑎𝑦 at 15% TAG)
Algae
(50𝑔/𝑚2 /𝑑𝑎𝑦 at 50% TAG)
1,200
10,000
1 point
Answer will include one of
the following: a specific
crop (s) and an explanation
of choice.
10. Compare and contrast the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, use domain
specific vocabulary.
Photosynthesis is the process that plants undergo that uses the energy from the sun to
convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and glucose. Respiration is the process that
animals undergo during cellular metabolism to convert oxygen and sugars (glucose) into
carbon dioxide and water. These processes are similar in that they both convert energy from
one form to another at the cellular level. Photosynthesis converts solar energy to chemical
energy and respiration converts chemical energy to mechanical energy. These processes are
different in that photosynthesis occurs in plants whereas respiration occurs in animals.
4 points
Answer includes all 4 of
the following:
 Definition of
photosynthesis
 Definition of
respiration
 Compares the two
processes
 Contrasts the two
processes
Draft: 2/9/2016
3 points
Answer includes 3 of
the following:
 Definition of
photosynthesis
 Definition of
respiration
 Compares the two
processes
 Contrasts the two
processes
2 points
Answer includes 2 of
the following:
 Definition of
photosynthesis
 Definition of
respiration
 Compares the two
processes
 Contrasts the two
processes
1 point
Answer includes 1 of
the following:
 Definition of
photosynthesis
 Definition of
respiration
 Compares the two
processes
 Contrasts the two
processes
Page 14
Appendix I: Is Algae the Fuel of the Future? KEY
1. What algae oil projections did Sapphire Energy make for the years 2018 and 2020?
Sapphire Energy projected that they will be producing 100 million gallons by 2018 and 1 billion
by the year 2020.
2. Explain what is meant by “new concepts” of algae.
Algae are organisms that consume large amounts of carbon while making a liquid fuel rather
then creating a large amount of carbon. The liquid fuel made can be used and alternate
energy source.
3. Describe a benefit of growing algae in non-potable water.
The benefit of growing algae in non-potable water is that there is no need to cut down forests
for use as farm fields.
4. Explain and describe the benefits of the unique technology used at Sapphire Energy.
The unique technology used at Sapphire Energy is that the fuel produced can be used with
existing pipelines.
5. Sapphire Energy’s algae-based jet fuel was tested on a commercial airline. List the testing results.
Describe one implication Continental Airlines experienced as a result of the testing.
Results of the experiment were successful and showed that biofuel can perform like
traditional jet fuel without modifications to the engines as well as get better gas mileage.
An implication is eliminating the need for changing engine and airframe technologies in
aircraft for the future.
6. List and describe a benefit of using algae as a fuel feedstock.
One benefit of algae used as fuel feed stock is massive consumption of carbon dioxide the
greenhouse gas.
7. List and describe two ways that companies are attempting to obtain more CO 2 for facilitating greater
algae growth and production.
Companies are transporting water and CO2 to their algae production facilities. Developing
new technologies to grow algae fast by reusing CO 2 emissions from power plants and used it
to produce algae directly at the power plant.
8. Explain conditions suitable for effective algae growth.
Algae can grow in any climate and with minimal water, just needs sunlight.
9. Describe Tim Zenk’s suggestions for future policy changes. Do the suggestions will have a positive
or a negative effect? Provide reasoning for your position.
Zen suggests that Congress enact policies, which give credit to companies for beneficial
reuse of their carbon.
Answers will vary, but should be for or against and give a reason for their position.
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Appendix J: Resource Hyperlinks
Bednar, R.(Director) (2009) Earth 2100 [DVD]
http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/Earth2100
Nova Science Now Online Clip: “Algae Fuel”
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/tech/algae-fuel.html
Scientific American Article “ Is Algae the Biofuel of the Future?”
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=algae-biofuel-of-future
Additional Resource:
Ted Talk: Jonathan Trent “Algae Pods” (14m46s):
www.ted.com/talks/jonathan_trent_energy_from_floating_algae_pods.html
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Appendix K: Teaching Notes
Background Information:
Photosynthesis is the process that plants undergo that uses the energy from the sun to convert
Carbon Dioxide and water into oxygen and glucose. Photosynthesis converts solar energy to
chemical energy that is then used by the plant and animals for energy. Respiration is the
process that animals undergo during cellular metabolism to convert Oxygen and sugars
(glucose) into Carbon Dioxide and water.
Photosynthesis
Carbon Dioxide + Water  Food +
Oxygen
Cellular Respiration
Oxygen + Food  Carbon Dioxide +
Water
Photosynthesis and Respiration are processes that work off each other to convert energy from
one form to another at the cellular level.
What is Algae?
Algae are tiny biological factories that use photosynthesis to transform carbon dioxide and
sunlight into energy so efficiently that they can double their weight several times a day. In
addition to using process of photosynthesis, algae produces oil and can generate 15 times more
oil per acre than other plants used for bio-fuels, such as corn and switch grass. Algae can grow
in salt water, freshwater or even contaminated water, at sea or in ponds, and on land not
suitable for food production.
In order to extract the oil from algae, a drying process must be implemented filtering off the
water and leaving behind the algae and the oil. This process is done using a vacuum filtration
system that is attached to a faucet aspirator on a laboratory sink.
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Appendix L: Vacuum Filtration Set-Up Diagram
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Printable Resources-2
It’s NOT Easy Being Green Algae!
Modified Resources for Students with Special Needs.
Appendix A-2:
Pre/Post-Test
Appendix E-2:
“Is Algae the Fuel of the Future?”
Appendix G-2:
Laboratory Report Rubric
Appendix I-2:
Is Algae the Fuel of the Future?” KEY
Appendix M-2:
Vocabulary
Appendix N-2:
Vocabulary KEY
Appendix O-2:
Vocabulary Cards
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Appendix A-2: Pre/Post-Test
Name: _____________________________Date: _________________Period: ______
1. Photosynthesis is a chemical process that converts carbon dioxide and water into:
A. water and oxygen
B. oxygen and glucose
2. If a container containing 2L of water contains 700 mg of green algae, calculate the
density of the algae in water using milligrams per liter.
A. 3.5*10^2mg/L
B. 6.98*10^2 mg/L
3. Which of the following events in history lead to the use of oil as a source of fuel?
A. The Industrial Revolution
B. Mining for coal
C. Drilling for petroleum
D. Introduction of motorized cars
E. All of the above
4. In order for cellular respiration to occur in animals, which of the following is needed?
A. Soil
B. Oxygen
C. Water
D. Both A and B
5. After 1 day of growth our 600 mL of water contains 387 mg of algae growth. After 3
days of growth our water contains 511 mg. Find the average rate of change in algae
growth per day.
A. 44.5 mg/day
B. 62 mg/day
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6. Using the information from #5 complete the table showing the amount of algae.
Days of Growth
Amount of Algae
1
387 mg
2
3
511 mg
4
7. As you watch the news, you hear the word “sustainability.” In the space below, give an
example of a sustainable resource and domain specific vocabulary to describe what makes
a resource is sustainable.
8. List and explain one reasons for developing sustainable alternatives to burning fossil fuels.
9. As a biochemical engineer your task is to develop a sustainable
source of energy derived from plant sources for your community.
You have access to a 10-acre farm with good fertile soil and a
shallow 2-acre pond. Analyze the table on the right. Then identify
and explain two specific crops that you would propose for use as a
sustainable source of energy.
Oil Yield
Crop
(gallons/acre)
Corn
18
Cotton
35
Soybean
48
Mustard Seed
61
Sunflower
102
Rapeseed/Canola
127
Jatropha
202
Oil Palm
635
Algae
(10𝑔/𝑚2 /𝑑𝑎𝑦 at 15% TAG)
Algae
(50𝑔/𝑚2 /𝑑𝑎𝑦 at 50% TAG)
1,200
10,000
10. Define the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, use domain specific
vocabulary.
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Appendix E-2: “Is Algae the Fuel of the Future?” Article Analysis
Name:_____________________________ Date: _________________Period: ______
1. What is the name of the LaJolla, California based company announcing the production of
100 million gallons of diesel & jet fuel a year by 2018 and 1 billion gallons a year by 2020?
2. This is enough to meet almost ________________ of the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard
(RFS) of 36 billion gallons.
3. There is a problem with this plan. ____________ ______ makes no room for ________________ _______ in the RFS.
4. Who is Tom Zenk?
5. Zenk said, “There needs to be ______________ __________ done to incorporate these
new concepts like _________________________.
6. Algae-based fuel producers use _______________, water, and ___________
___________ to convert carbon dioxide into sugar, which the algae metabolize into
__________________, or oil.
7. Sapphire tested its company’s algae-based jet fuel what commercial airline?
8.
According to Shannon, what was Continental’s primary role in the test flight? Why was it
important?
9. What is another benefit of algae as a fuel stock?
10. Algae can grow in almost any climate with minimal ________ and ___________.
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Appendix G-2: Laboratory Report Rubric
3
2
1
Introduction
Missing one of the following:
Problem Statement,
background research, and
defined objectives and
constraints
Missing 2 of the following:
Problem Statement,
background research, and
defined objectives and
constraints
Missing 3 or more of the
following: Problem Statement,
background research, and
defined objectives and
constraints
Design
Selection
Includes 4 design sketches
Includes 3 design sketches
Includes less than 3 design
sketches
Final Design
Includes final photo/ sketch
of prototype, dimensions,
and materials used
Missing one of the following:
final photo/ sketch of
prototype, dimensions, and
materials used,
Missing 2 or more of the
following: final photo/ sketch
of prototype, dimensions, and
materials used,
Technical
Aspects
Includes a description of
the use of math, science
and engineering principles
used in design
Missing one of the following
descriptions of the use of
math, science and
engineering principles used
in design
Missing 2 or more of the
following descriptions of the
use of math, science and
engineering principles used in
design
Includes 3 chart and/ or
graph combinations
Includes 2 chart and/ or
graph combinations
Includes one chart and/or
graph combination
Conclusions
Includes: an evaluation of
the final design, how well
the final design failed to
meet the objectives, and
summary of key findings
Missing one of the following:
an evaluation of the final
design, how well the final
design met objectives, and
summary of key findings
Missing 2 or more of the
following: an evaluation of the
final design, how well the final
design met objectives, and
summary of key findings
Recommenda
tions
Includes: 3
recommendations, a
potential redesign of
prototype, and examples of
future use of prototype
Missing one of the following:
3 recommendations, a
potential redesign of
prototype, and examples of
future use of prototype
Missing 2 or more of the
following: 3
recommendations, a potential
redesign of prototype, and
examples of future use of
prototype
References
Includes: 2 book references,
2 journal article references
and one website. NO
WIKIPEDIA
Missing one of the following:
2 book references, 2 journal
article references and one
website. NO WIKIPEDIA
Missing 2 or more of the
following: 2 book references,
2 journal article references
and one website. –or- uses
Wikipedia as a cited source.
Results
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Appendix I-2: “Is Algae the Fuel of the Future?” Article Analysis Answer KEY
1. What is the name of the LaJolla, California based company announcing the production of
100 million gallons of diesel & jet fuel a year by 2018 and 1 billion gallons a year by 2020?
Sapphire Energy
2. This is enough to meet almost 3% of the U.S. Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) of 36 billion
gallons.
3. There is a problem with this plan. Federal Law makes no room for Algae – based Fuel in
the RFS.
4. Who is Tom Zenk? Vice Preseident of corporate affairs at Sapphire
5. Zenk said, “There needs to be policy work done to incorporate these new concepts like
algae.
6. Algae-based fuel producers use sunlight , water, and Carbon DIoxide to convert carbon
dioxide into sugar, which the algae metabolize into lipids or oil.
7. Sapphire tested its company’s algae-based jet fuel what commercial airline?
Continental Airlines
8.
According to Shannon, what was Continental’s primary role in the test flight? Why was it
important?
To show that bio-fuel blend would perform just like traditional jet fuel witout
modifications of the engines or aircraft.
9. What is another benefit of algae as a fuel feedstock?
Massive consumption of carbon dioxide
10. Algae can grow in almost any climate with minimal water and sunlight.
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Appendix M-2: Vocabulary
Name: _____________________________Date: _________________Period: ______
1. _____ Energy
2. _____ Transform
3. _____ Renewable Energy
4. _____ Nonrenewable Energy
5. _____ Inexhaustible Energy
6. _____ Sustainable Energy
7. _____ Photosynthesis
8. _____ Cellular Respiration
9. _____ Biofuel
10. _____ Biomass
11. _____ Dry Weight
12. _____ Sustainability
Draft: 2/9/2016
a. To change into something else.
b. An energy source that is replenished
continually.
c. Energy sources that meet present
needs, but do not compromise future
needs.
d. The complex process by which
carbon dioxide, water and certain
organic salts are converted into
carbohydrates by green plants, algae
and certain bacteria by using energy
from the sun and chlorophyll.
e. The oxidation of organic compounds
that occurs within cells, producing
energy for cellular processes.
f. Something’s ability to endure.
g. An energy source that is used up
much faster than it can be replaced.
h. The total amount of living material in
a given habitat, population or sample.
i. Energy that cannot be used up by
humans for many years.
j. Used to express biomass and is the
weight of the living material after the
removal of the water.
k. The ability to do work or to cause
change.
l. A source of energy derived from living
matter.
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Appendix N-2: Vocabulary KEY
Name: _____________________________Date: _________________Period: ______
1. __K__ Energy
2. __A__ Transform
3. __B__ Renewable Energy
4. __G__ Nonrenewable Energy
5. __I___ Inexhaustible Energy
6. __C__ Sustainable Energy
7. __D__ Photosynthesis
8. __E__ Cellular Respiration
9. __L__ Biofuel
10. __H__ Biomass
11. __J__ Dry Weight
12. __F__ Sustainability
Draft: 2/9/2016
a. To change into something else.
b. An energy source that is replenished
continually.
c. Energy sources that meet present
needs, but do not compromise future
needs.
d. The complex process by which
carbon dioxide, water and certain
organic salts are converted into
carbohydrates by green plants, algae
and certain bacteria by using energy
from the sun and chlorophyll.
e. The oxidation of organic compounds
that occurs within cells, producing
energy for cellular processes.
f. Something’s ability to endure.
g. An energy source that is used up
much faster than it can be replaced.
h. The total amount of living material in
a given habitat, population or sample.
i. Energy that cannot be used up by
humans for many years.
j. Used to express biomass and is the
weight of the living material after the
removal of the water.
k. The ability to do work or to cause
change.
l. A source of energy derived from living
matter.
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Appendix O-2: Vocabulary Cards
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