English National Curriculum - Science

Transpiration and factors affecting transpiration

Mission Objectives

Describe the process of transpiration and how guard cells help minimise it

Compare the number of stomata on the upper and lower surface of the leaf

Explain how factors such as wind, humidity, light intensity and temperature affect transpiration

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

transpiration stream

the movement of water from the roots, through the stem and out through the leaves.

xylem

a type of plant tissue which transports water and mineral ions around the plant. These cells are dead cells which do not lose structure when water is added to them.

phloem

a type of plant tissue which transports dissolved sugars around the plant. These cells are living cells.

stomata

the holes in the leaf surface, which allow water to exit the leaf and gases to exchange.

guard cells

cells which ‘guard’ the stomata, they can open and close the stoma by increasing their water content to make them turgid and swell, closing the stomata.

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

Samantha is an accomplished science educator with over 15 years of leadership experience and a strong background in scientific analysis. She has a proven record of leading departments effectively, improving practice, and working collaboratively with stakeholders.

In her current work, Samantha embeds evidence-informed pedagogical principles such as retrieval practice, clear modelling, and effective sequencing to support high-quality curriculum design and professional development. She draws on assessment insight and common misconceptions to help teachers secure strong student understanding.

She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor at Ilkley Grammar School, with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and exam requirements.

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

Required Resources

  • String
  • Hair dryers
  • Balances
  • Pegs or paperclips
  • Leaves (left in water until needed)
  • Calculators
  • Potometer
  • Shoot with leaves
  • Clear nail varnish or PVA glue

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