Capture Oxygen from Photosynthesis

Downloadable (1 PDF - 6 pages) 

Through observing the collection of gas produced by pond weed submerged in water, students will witness the production of a gas from photosynthesis. The ability of the gas to support a flame will then be tested to determine if it is oxygen. This lesson is ideal for grades 3-5.

After completing this experiment, students will understand:

• That photosynthesis produces oxygen

Resources included:

• Lesson plan
• Student worksheet

Additional resources required:

• Glass jar (1 per group of 3-5 students)
• Pond weed (also known as Elodea, available at pet stores) (1 per group)
• Funnel that fits entirely inside the jar (1 per group)
• Test tube (1 per group)
• Large plastic container or bucket (1 per group)
• Matches and a wooden splint (for demonstration purposes only)