James Ruse Agricultural High School

2006 TERM 1 (Y12) ASSESSMENT TASK SKILLS ASSESSMENT

MARKING GUIDELINES
Aim
To investigate the microscopic leaf adaptations that assist in minimising water loss in a particular
plant species. (Microscopic adaptations are adaptations you need a microscope to observe; you
cannot see them with the naked eye.)
The materials available to use for your investigation:
microscope slides (2); cover slips (4); scalpels (2); dropper; paper towelling; probe (dissection
needle) (1); scissors; demineralised water in wash bottle; rubbish container; leaf with nail varnish
sections.
The task
Design and conduct an investigation that addresses the aim of this task. Present your investigation
in the form of a brief report in the space provided. An assessment framework has been provided to
assist in the design of your investigation.

Assessment framework
Descriptions of microscopic adaptations observed
(written and drawn).
Explanation of how the adaptations assist the plant
in minimising water loss.
Presentation of the report.
Extent of the investigation.

Aim
To examine the microscopic leaf adaptations in a plant.
Method
(1) Prepare microscope slides of sections of leaf that have been covered with nail varnish.
(2) Examine slides and observe for hairs on upper and lower epidermis.
(3) Examine slides and observe for sunken stomates.
(4) Examine slides and measure the abundance of stomates on the upper and lower epidermis.

James Ruse Agricultural High School HSC Biology Ass. Task 2 Term 1 2006

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James Ruse Agricultural High School HSC Biology Ass. Task 2 Term 1 2006

Results/Discussion
Hair investigation
Hairs were observed only on the lower epidermis. Hairs are cell membrane extensions that act as
micro-barriers to the movement of water from the stomates. The presence of hairs enables the plant
to maintain higher levels of water than plants that have no hairy leaves.
Drawing of hairs:

Sunken stomate investigation

Stomates were observed to be sunken in both surfaces of the leaf. This was evident by the nail
varnish prints of the stomates having shadow-like elliptical patterns. Sunken stomates assist the
leaf to maintain higher levels of water by creating a microenvironment with walls thus impeding
the movement of water molecules from the stomates.
Drawing of sunken stomates:

Abundance of stomates investigation

Upper leaf had a mean value of 13 stomates per 400x field of view. Lower leaf had a mean value of
25 stomates per 400x field of view. The upper leaf surface is exposed to the effects of the sun; by
having a greater number of stomates on the lower leaf surface the leaf will transpire less water.

Presentation of the report:

Method provided for each investigation.
Results provided for each investigation.
Structure/layout.
Extent of the investigation:
Marks will be integrated with the other areas. More marks equates to greater depth of investigation.
Descriptions of microscopic adaptations observed (written and drawn):
Written description of results.
Drawing of each adaptation investigated.
Explanation of how the adaptations assist the plant in minimising water loss:
Explanation of how adaptation assists the plant in conserving water.

End of task

James Ruse Agricultural High School HSC Biology Ass. Task 2 Term 1 2006