|
ADVANCED NOTICE: CHEMISTRY TEACHERS 2008
OUTCOME 2: ORGANIC CHEMICAL PATHWAYS
Proposed School Group Program For Unit 3 Chemistry 2008
This program explores the chemical nature of amino acids, the formation of a polypeptide by condensation polymerisation, the hierarchical structure of proteins and the nature and function of catalytic proteins in biochemical pathways.
This program provides material to meet the requirements for school assessed coursework in Unit 3 Chemistry, Outcome 2
“From Amino Acids To Catalytic Proteins”
Students will:
• Attend a lecture detailing the nature of amino acids, polypeptide formation, the hierarchical structure of proteins and the molecular interactions that give rise to a functional shape. Particular emphasis is placed on the action of enzymes and their role in the regulation and control of biochemical pathways.
• Attend a pre-laboratory lecture outlining all experimental procedures, concepts related to the functioning of enzymes and the relationships between the rate of biological reactions and the functional stability of enzymes.
• Work in small groups with their own scientist mentors, young practicing scientists who engage students and impart an enthusiasm for science
• Design a hypothesis that can be tested experimentally
• Discuss the need to have controls, eliminate variables and minimise scientific error
• Utilise research grade equipment to accurately dispense volumes
• Gain skills in utilising a spectrophotometer to measure concentration as a function of absorbance at a fixed wavelength
• Prepare and use standard curves to determine concentration of unknown samples
• Discuss methods of disposal of the chemicals utilised in the experiment
• Learn how to determine the rate of reaction using substrate concentrations
• Analyse results to determine if their hypothesis is supported
• Utilise models to explore the secondary, tertiary and quaternary nature of protein structure and use bioinformatics tools, such as Cn3D to view the 3 dimensional structures of proteins, the nature of the active site and the importance of cofactors. This program allows them to investigate how inhibitors can block active and binding sites on proteins, a concept utilised in rational drug design.
It is anticipated that this program will be scheduled on most Mondays during Term 2, 2008. School groups are limited to 30 students. Cost/student $20.00 (ex GST)
Chemistry teachers are invited to contact gtac to register their interest in their students attending this full day program.
|
