Biology

This workbook explores a historical and materials-science phenomenon: the production of casein, an early milk-based bioplastic. Students work as a team of researchers to investigate how the organic components of liquid cow’s milk can be transformed into a solid plastic through the action of acid. Content and Methods: The content is conveyed through a combination of historical contextualization, experimental laboratory work, and material analysis: Starting with the question of how a solid material can be produced from milk, students explore the composition of milk and the effect of acids on proteins. They then experimentally extract casein, document the course of the reaction, and examine the properties of the resulting bioplastic. Finally, the results are used in a scientific application to evaluate the historical significance and material properties of casein as an alternative to plastic. Competencies: Technical expertise: Understanding of protein denaturation (acid precipitation of milk protein/casein) and the classification of galalith as a historical bioplastic Knowledge acquisition: Planning, conducting, and systematically documenting a preparative organic chemistry experiment (filtration, solid isolation) Materials and testing skills: Criteria-based analysis of the physical properties of a self-produced solid Argumentation and language skills: Writing a technically sound report using precise scientific explanations Target audience and level: Middle school

This worksheet explores the electrochemical fundamentals of galvanic cells and how a lemon battery works in the context of modern, sustainable technology development. Students take on the role of a startup research team to experimentally and ecologically evaluate the suitability of a lemon as an environmentally friendly electrolyte, as well as the efficiency of various electrode pairings. Content and Methods: The content is taught by combining theoretical fundamentals, experimental data collection, error analysis, and sustainability assessment: First, students explore the structure and functioning of electrochemical cells as well as the underlying redox reactions. They then test their hypotheses in an experiment, document measurement data, and analyze typical sources of error in the laboratory. Finally, they evaluate the performance and sustainability of various materials before summarizing their results in a technical report and a persuasive presentation. Competencies: Technical Competence: Understanding of redox reactions, electrode potentials, and the role of electrolytes in generating electrical power Data Analysis: Conducting quantitative electrochemical measurements, systematically comparing variables, and identifying sources of methodological error Evaluation Competence: Balancing maximum technical performance with environmental factors (extraction, recycling, toxicity) in the context of sustainable chemistry Communication skills: Targeted, audience-oriented presentation of laboratory data for a business analysis or an investor pitch Target audience and level: Middle School

Students playfully immerse themselves in the world of trees, solve puzzles, and identify different tree species in order to find a “forest treasure” and break a “curse.” Content and Methods: In an escape room scenario, students solve various puzzles related to tree species. They must identify trees based on descriptions, fill in gaps in texts, evaluate statements about trees as true or false, and classify trees as deciduous or coniferous. The worksheet also encourages students to document the trees they find, e.g., through photos or drawings. Skills: Knowledge of tree species Analytical thinking and problem-solving Reading comprehension and text analysis Classification and categorization Target audience and grade level: Grade 5 and up

This worksheet aims to provide students with a basic understanding of genetic engineering and to facilitate a discussion of its advantages and disadvantages, particularly as they relate to fruits and vegetables. Content and Methods: It explains the basics of genetic engineering and its applications (medicine, agriculture, research). The focus is on genetic engineering in fruits and vegetables, its advantages (pesticide resistance, productivity, nutritional value, climate adaptation), and concerns (environment, health, acceptance, costs). Methods include a prior knowledge assessment, multiple-choice questions, open-ended questions, and expressing an opinion in letter form. Competencies: Reading comprehension of scientific texts Critical thinking about biotechnology Argumentation and written expression skills Target audience and level: Spanish learners at B1 level ESD: SDG 13 (Climate Action): Exploring climate adaptation SDG 15 (Life on Land): Raising awareness of biodiversity conservation