Osmosis: The Real Flow Behind the Science! Plus a free AccessScience handout
Let the learning flow with the science behind osmosis—everything from osmotic pressure to the mind-bending magic of reverse osmosis.
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High School
Did you know there’s a secret agent working behind the scenes in almost every biological process you can think of—its osmosis? Of course, you knew that! This quiet, unassuming water (or solvent) transporter never fails to make a splash!
At its core, osmosis is the process of water (or another solvent) molecules moving through a semipermeable membrane from a region of low solute concentration to one of high solute concentration. Whether you teach biology, chemistry, or environmental science, this concept is essential. But how do you get your students pumped about something they can’t see happening?
The definitions and equations are fundamental concepts that will surely whet their appetite. But we can seamlessly bridge these basics to engaging classroom experiments, cross-curricular connections, and real-world applications. Take these two popular activities that help students experience the concepts firsthand.
How to teach osmosis and diffusion with agar cubes – a free activity
Students will be fascinated by how many ways diffusion and osmosis can be found throughout nature. The size of elephant ears, flatworm survival, swollen water-soaked raisins, and plant root systems are just a few examples. Once your students complete this activity, they can have fun thinking of other examples of diffusion and osmosis playing a role in the real world.
Soak Up this Free Disappearing Water Activity
The disappearing water activity demonstrates several scientific concepts, including osmosis, diffusion, absorption, and the structure and properties of matter. Download this activity to whet your students’ appetite for exploring hydrophilic polymers.
Ready to let the learning flow?
Download the McGraw Hill Access Science article, Osmosis, with the facts and figures supporting your lesson plan! This article offers a solid foundation of the science behind osmosis—everything from osmotic pressure to the mind-bending magic of reverse osmosis.
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Osmosis and Diffusion Lab Activity
This lab addresses osmosis, diffusion, and the function of these processes in maintaining homeostasis in the cell..
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Ward's® Prepared Agar Cubes
Making agar cubes can be a time-consuming and messy process. Use these prepared agar cubes that make this activity a lot faster and easier! These cubes are exclusive to Ward's Science and included in our AP Biology Investigation kit on osmosis and diffusion.
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Prepared Phenolphthalein Agar
Convenient: no mixing or sterilizing needed.
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Ideal for the students to investigate the many uses and properties of polymers.
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