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Soybean Protein Levels

This video discusses the implications of protein levels in Midwestern soybeans decreasing over time.

Location
Johnston, IA

Possible Guiding, Compelling and/or Anchoring Questions

  • Why is the protein level in soybeans decreasing only in the United States?
  • How are livestock impacted if they receive less protein in their soybeans?

Classroom Suggestions

Students could:

  • Compile and analyze data about the ratios of proteins, carbohydrates and fats in foods. 
  • Research and compare human nutritional needs to the needs of different livestock.
  • Compare the chemical structures of different amino acids, carbohydrates and fats. Model how these compounds interact in the human or animal body.
  • Model the energy and matter flows that occur in cellular respiration.
  • Research the temperature-protein connection and discuss what it means that we can’t fully explain it yet.

Related Resources

Iowa Core Alignment

HS-LS1-6:

Construct and revise an explanation based on evidence for how carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen from sugar molecules may combine with other elements to form amino acids and/or other large carbon-based molecules.

Credit Info

Media produced for Market to Market by Iowa PBS.
Submitted by Dan Voss and Madison Beeler as part of their Iowa STEM Teacher Externship experience at Iowa PBS.

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