English National Curriculum - Science

Factors affecting enzyme activity

Mission Objectives

Explain the term optimum temperature and pH in relation to enzyme action

Explain how enzyme action is altered due to changes in pH or temperature

Interpret graphs relating to enzyme changes and calculate rate of reaction at given times

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

optimum pH

the pH at which an enzyme-substrate reaction works best at.

optimum temperature

the temperature at which an enzyme-substrate reaction works best at.

initial reaction

the start of the reaction; this is usually the fastest part of the reaction.

denature

when the enzyme's active site changes shape so it can no longer bind with the substrate and produce a product.

bile

a substance produced by the liver and stored in the gall bladder. It is responsible for emulsifying fats and neutralising the acid mixed with food exiting the stomach.

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

Samantha is an accomplished science educator whose current work centres on curriculum design and professional development, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality science education through evidence-informed approaches. She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and has worked as an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and what students need to succeed.

Samantha has written the complete KS4 Science curriculum, fully aligned with the AQA GCSE Science: Trilogy specification. Covering biology, chemistry and physics, the curriculum is carefully sequenced so that students build knowledge cumulatively and see clear connections between concepts across the three sciences. Drawing on her experience as an examiner and on research into effective teaching, she has designed it to embed retrieval practice, clear explanation, worked examples and the required practicals throughout, preparing students for the demands of the GCSE exams. Grounded in the realities of the classroom, the curriculum is rigorous for students and manageable for busy teachers.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket. 

Required Resources

  • Graph paper
  • Colouring pens
  • A3 sheets of paper,
  • Rulers
  • Calculators
  • Handouts

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