Diseases and Disorders · SHS3 Biomedical Science

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.2.2.LI.1 - Describe the different types of lipid molecules and their different physical properties and functions.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Define a lipid and state the four main types of lipid molecules found in the human body: fatty acids, fats (triglycerides), steroids, and complex lipids (phospholipids and glycolipids).
Describe the basic molecular structure of each lipid type, including the components that make up a triglyceride and a steroid ring structure.
Compare the physical properties of the different lipid types, such as solubility, state at room temperature, and melting point, and explain how these relate to their structure.
State at least one primary function of each lipid type in the human body, giving a specific example for each (for example, phospholipids in cell membranes, steroids like testosterone as hormones).
Sketch a simple diagram of each lipid type using a stick and ball model or a labelled drawing, and explain the key structural features shown.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Human Body Systems (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Diseases and Disorders (2.2)
Content standard: 3.2.2.CS.1 - Demonstrate an understanding of the function of cholesterol in the body and its role in heart disease. 3.2.2.LO.1 Describe the different types of lipids in the body, explain how cholesterol-lipoprotein complexes affect risk of heart diseases and how risk of heart diseases may be assessed.
Indicator: 3.2.2.LI.1 - Describe the different types of lipid molecules and their different physical properties and functions.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 19 (Week 19 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 92

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Structuring Talk for Learning: The teacher shows the structure of the different types of lipid molecules (fatty acids, fats, steroids and complex lipids) using stick and ball models and sketches. Learners are engaged to discuss what properties lipid molecules share and how a lipid molecule is defined.
Activity-Based Learning: Learners work in pairs to document examples of the different types of lipids in humans and their primary functions from relevant literature. For each lipid type, learners sketch and model using stick and ball.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Sticks and balls from local materials sketch boards or pads
- Internet
- Textbooks
- Writing board
- Projector
- Sample cholesterol measurement results
- Sample angiograms or images
Assessment (3.2.2.AS.1). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 2 Skills of conceptual understanding; Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.