Macromolecule

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/macromolecule

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the key biological macromolecules?Nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates
2. What is the pioneering scientist?Hermann Staudinger proposed the concept of giant molecules (macromolecules)
3. Why do macromolecules matter in our bodies?They are the building blocks of life, making proteins, DNA, and sugars that help our cells work and give us energy.
4. How are macromolecules made?They are built by linking many tiny molecules called monomers through chemical bonds in a process called polymerization, often guided by enzymes in living things.

Polymerization: The chemical process of joining monomer units to form a polymer chain.
Monomer: The small, repeating molecular unit that serves as the building block for polymers.
Biopolymer: A macromolecule synthesized by living organisms, such as DNA, RNA, proteins, and polysaccharides.
Synthetic Polymer: A macromolecule manufactured by humans, like polyethylene or nylon.