Stomata- Experimental skills

27/05/23
Key words: Dependent variable, independent variable,
control variable
Starter:
1: What is the role of stomata in a
leaf?
2: What controls the opening and
closing of stomata?
3: Why might plants that live in the
desert have less stomata?
The big picture: “How does stomatal
density differ in a leaf?”
Learning outcomes
To explain a method and potential risks for
investigating stomatal density.
To investigate the difference in stomatal
density between the upper and lower sides of
the leaf.
To interpret results and evaluate limitations
of the method used.
Write definitions for these key terms
• Range
• Hypothesis
• Dependent variable
• Independent variable
• Control variable
• Reproducible
• Repeatable
Aim: To investigate the
number of stomata on the top
and bottom of leaves in 2
different plant species.

Context: Plants are adapted to

prevent water loss so will have
stomata where they are most
needed. Different species/
plants from different regions
will also have different
numbers of stomata as they are
adapted to their environment.
 Method
• Prepare an epidermal impression by coating the
leaf surface with nail varnish. Peel off the
dried layer of nail varnish by using cello tape
and stick this onto a slide.
• Count the number of stomata within the field
of view (the area you can see under the
microscope)
 Planning
- Write a prediction for this experiment (supported by
scientific knowledge) (3 MARKS)

- Write an equipment list and method

- Write a risk assessment
- Clearly identify your dependent, independent variable and
control.
(9 MARKS)

Extra challenge: Draw a table for your results next

lesson- remember you need headings and units
 Practical work
You should work in 2’s/3’s with the people on your
desk. Ensure you fill in a results table.
You will need: a microscope, leaf, microscope
slides, lab coasts, goggles, nail varnish

When you have finished your practical you should

produce a bar chart- x axis should be your
independent variable, dependent should be on the y.
 Evaluation/ conclusion
1. What did you find out? (use data!) (How big is you field of
view?)
2. Give scientific reasons why you might have got these results.
3. Is your experiment repeatable?
4. Where there any possible uncertainties with your method
(potential errors)?
5. Suggest how the method could be improved.

Extra challenge: Explain why the results may differ

depending on the species of plant used.
 Plenary
Key word bingo- draw a 4 by 4 grid and choose 4 key terms from the
list below- one per box

repeatable reproducible
stomata context
field of view
side of the leaf magnification control

number of stomata dependent

independent range hypothesis
bar chart line graph
risk assessment