I observed a session with a Year 11 biology student focus. The session was structured around reinforcing core syllabus content and addressing gaps in the student’s understanding. The tutor began by asking the student to define enzymes and substrates. The student identified enzymes as biological catalysts and enzymes as the base molecule in which the enzyme acts upon. The tutor expanded on this by explaining that enzymes increase the rate of chemical reactions by lowering activation energy and are not consumed in the process. The lesson then moved to enzyme structure and function. The tutor introduced the concept of the active site and explained how substrate molecules bind to this region. Diagrams were used to illustrate this, which helped the student visualise her explanation. The tutor then focused on factors affecting enzyme activity, including temperature, pH, and substrate concentration. For example, the tutor described how high temperatures can denature enzymes by altering the shape of the active site, preventing substrate binding. The student was asked to interpret simple graphs showing enzyme activity under different conditions, which helped develop data analysis skills. Throughout the session, the tutor used questioning to check understanding and encouraged her student to explain concepts in their own words. When the student made errors or showed uncertainty, the tutor provided clear corrections and examples. She also emphasised the importance of answering short-answer questions in exams in a full sentence form to secure full marks. The session concluded with practice questions that required the student to apply their knowledge. She broke down each individual question for her student and provided feedback which focused on improving accuracy. Overall, the session was content-focused and aligned with curriculum requirements, using explanation, visual aids, and practice to support understanding. As my science knowledge is limited, I found that the tutor explained the concepts extremely well!

Evanthea Kargas