Paper Assignment: Enzymes - Life’s
Chemical Machines
Alternate Assignment for Enzymes Lab: Life’s Chemical Machines
What is the purpose of this assignment?
Enzymes are life’s chemical machines. They allow many chemical reactions to occur within the
homeostasis constraints of a living system. Without them, life would not be possible. This assignment will
explore the importance and function of specific enzymes within the human body.
What is the assignment?
In this assignment, you will research the importance of enzymes in the human body. Then you will select
three specific enzymes from the list provided and identify their importance, characteristics, and
mechanisms of action.
What are the requirements of this assignment?
 A multi-paragraph paper (1-2 pages) that contains at least 4 paragraphs as outlined below
 Introductory paragraph that describes enzymes and their functions and discusses the importance
of enzymes to living things.
 At least one paragraph addressing each of the enzymes selected from the list below (for a total of
at least 3 paragraphs). For each enzyme you must identify the role it plays in the human body,
the results of having a deficiency of that particular enzyme, where the enzyme is produced, what
substrate it acts on, what product is produced by the reaction the enzyme catalyzes, and the
optimal temperature and pH for the enzyme to function properly.
How do I complete the assignment?
Use an internet search engine of your choice, your local library, or other resources to research the
importance of enzymes in the human body. Then select three enzymes from the list below. For each
enzyme, research the items listed above in the requirements section and include the information in your
final paper.
Some Important Enzymes in the Human Body (Select Three)
 Catalase
 Lactase
 Lipase
 Protease
 Pepsin
 Trypsin
 Amylase
NOTE: Before you turn in your paper for a grade, make sure that it has all the qualities of a good paper by
comparing it to the Enzymes Paper Assignment rubric.
Plagiarism
Remember that this assignment needs to be in your own words. You may use outside information on this
assignment, but you will need to document your sources. Check with your teacher if you have further
questions.
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