Potential Science Standards for the board game Photosynthesis

Middle School (Grades 6-8)

MS-LS1-6 – Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for the role of photosynthesis in the cycling of matter and flow of energy into and out of organisms.

(The game models how trees absorb sunlight and convert it into energy.)

MS-LS2-1 – Analyze and interpret data to provide evidence for the effects of resource availability on organisms and populations.

(Photosynthesis directly models competition for sunlight and its impact on tree growth and survival.)

MS-LS2-3 – Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.

(The game demonstrates how sunlight, trees, and the environment interact.)

High School (Grades 9-12)

HS-LS1-5 – Use a model to illustrate how photosynthesis transforms light energy into stored chemical energy.

(The game reinforces how trees use light to grow, emphasizing energy transformation.)

HS-LS2-1 – Use mathematical representations to support explanations of factors affecting biodiversity and populations in ecosystems.

(The game involves strategic decision-making about where to plant trees to maximize growth, modeling real-world ecosystem interactions.)

HS-LS2-4 – Use a model to illustrate the role of photosynthesis and cellular respiration in the carbon cycle.

(The game can be a starting point for discussing the carbon cycle and plant life’s role in carbon storage.)