Macromolecules are the biological name for nutrients that are in our food. These nutrients are critical for basic cell functions. We know that we must eat to maintain a healthy body. In BIO 1113, we learn the roles of the macromolecules in cell function. Tying together the macromolecules to something as simple as a Snickers Bar may help to make connections to the importance of the topic.

Prior to learning about macromolecule, students will have an understanding of food labels and such, but during 1113, they will begin to learn the specific roles that the nutrients play in their cells.

Students should be able to recognize the molecular structures of the ingredients of the candy bar and match them to their chemical or layman name. This will help students to appreciate that macromolecules have a link to their daily lives beyond the concepts learning in the classroom.

Once the connections above are made, the students can evaluate the macromolecules and describe them based on structural elements. What are their subunits? How can we classify them based on structure? What types of linkages hold them together?


Of course - passing out Snickers Bars makes it a bit more fun!