An organic molecule is a type of molecule that contains carbon atoms, often bonded with other elements like hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and more. These molecules are the building blocks of life and can be found in living things, like plants, animals, and even humans.
Organic molecules serve various purposes in living organisms. For example, carbohydrates are organic molecules that provide energy to our bodies. You can think of them as the fuel that keeps us going. Proteins are another type of organic molecule that play a crucial role in our bodies, helping with tasks like building and repairing tissues, as well as controlling chemical reactions.
Fats, or lipids, are organic molecules that store energy and help with insulation. They're like the body's way of saving up for later. Additionally, organic molecules can also be part of genetic material, like DNA, which contains the instructions for how living things grow and function.
In simpler terms, organic molecules are like the puzzle pieces that make up living things and make them work properly. Just like how you use different tools for different tasks, our bodies and other living things use different types of organic molecules for different jobs!
The text provided aligns with several Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and New York State Next Generation Science Standards (NYSSLS) in the area of Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems for middle school science. Here are the relevant standards:
Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):
MS-LS1-1: This standard focuses on the structure and function of cells. The text mentions how organic molecules are like the puzzle pieces that make up living things, which is related to the idea of cells being composed of various molecules.
MS-LS1-3: This standard deals with the organization of matter and energy flow in organisms. The text mentions how organic molecules serve various purposes, such as providing energy and storing energy, which relates to the flow and transformation of matter and energy in living organisms.
MS-LS1-6: This standard is about DNA and genetic information. The text mentions that organic molecules can be part of genetic material like DNA, which aligns with the idea that DNA contains instructions for how living things grow and function.
New York State Next Generation Science Standards (NYSSLS):
LS1: Structure and Properties of Matter: The text aligns with the LS1 performance expectations related to understanding the structure and properties of organic molecules, including carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids.
LS2: Chemical Reactions: While not explicitly mentioned, the text indirectly relates to LS2 as it discusses the chemical properties and functions of organic molecules within living organisms.
LS3: Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems: The text directly aligns with LS3 as it addresses the role of organic molecules in the flow of matter and energy in living organisms and ecosystems.
Overall, the text provides a clear and accessible explanation of organic molecules and their importance in living organisms, aligning with both NGSS and NYSSLS standards for middle school science.