Cellular Respiration: Energy from Food

Grade 7 Science Understanding how cells release energy Lesson 2 of 6: Energy Flow in Ecosystems

I Can Statements - Today's Goals

I can describe the process of cellular respiration and its purpose in living organisms I can explain how cellular respiration relates to photosynthesis I can create a flowchart that accurately represents the steps of cellular respiration

Think Back: What Do You Remember?

What is photosynthesis? Where does the energy in food come from? How do you think your body gets energy from the food you eat?

What is Cellular Respiration?

The process cells use to break down food molecules Releases energy stored in glucose (sugar) Happens in ALL living things - plants, animals, bacteria Like 'burning fuel' to power your body's activities

Photosynthesis vs. Cellular Respiration

{"left":"Makes glucose using sunlight\nStores energy in food molecules\nHappens in chloroplasts\nOnly in plants and some bacteria","right":"Breaks down glucose\nReleases energy from food\nHappens in mitochondria\nHappens in ALL living things"}

The Three Steps of Cellular Respiration

Create Your Cellular Respiration Flowchart

Work with a partner or individually Use the template provided Fill in each step with key terms Draw arrows to show energy flow Add colors to make it clear Include: Glucose → Pyruvate → CO₂ + H₂O + ATP

Success Check & Extension

Share your flowchart with the class Explain one step in your own words Extension: How might cellular respiration work differently in other organisms? Exit ticket: Write how photosynthesis and cellular respiration are connected