The Secret Life of Plants

Vicky Jaime

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

The Secret Life of Plants

Understand photosynthesis and plant growth

In this week-long lesson, students will explore the fascinating world of plants and their crucial role in our ecosystem. Through daily hands-on activities and observations, they will learn about photosynthesis and the process of plant growth. This extended lesson is important as it helps students appreciate the natural world and understand the basic science behind plant life, fostering curiosity and respect for the environment.

Audience

K-3rd Grade Students

Time

1 week

Approach

Understand photosynthesis and plant growth

Materials

Pea and bean seeds, Pots around campus, Soil, Watering can, Worksheet: Plant Growth Observation, and Discussion: The Role of Plants

Step 1

Day 1: Introduction and Planting Seeds

45 mins

Begin with a brief discussion about plants and their importance in our ecosystem.
Ask students what they know about how plants grow and what they need to survive.
Provide each student with a small pot, soil, and both pea and bean seeds.
Guide them to fill the pot with soil and plant the seeds.
Explain the importance of sunlight and water for plant growth.
Place the pots around the campus in sunny areas.

Step 2

Day 2: Understanding Photosynthesis

45 mins

Use simple language to explain photosynthesis: how plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to make their food.
Show a diagram of the photosynthesis process on the board.
Discuss the role of leaves in capturing sunlight.

Step 3

Day 3: Observing Seed Growth

45 mins

Distribute the "Plant Growth Observation" worksheet.
Instruct students to draw and write about their planted seeds, predicting how they will grow over time.
Encourage them to observe their plants daily and note changes.
Discuss the factors that might affect plant growth.

Step 4

Day 4: The Role of Plants in the Ecosystem

45 mins

Lead a discussion on the role of plants in providing oxygen, food, and habitats.
Use questions from the "The Role of Plants" discussion attachment to guide the conversation.
Explore different types of plants and their specific roles in various ecosystems.

Step 5

Day 5: Review and Reflection

45 mins

Recap the key points of the week.
Ask students to share one new thing they learned about plants each day.

Worksheet

Plant Growth Observation

This worksheet allows students to record their observations and predictions about the growth of their planted pea and bean seeds.

Draw your planted pea and bean seeds and predict how they will look in one week.

Think about the changes you expect to see.

What do plants need to grow? List at least three things.

Consider what you learned about sunlight, water, and soil.

Discussion

The Role of Plants

This discussion will help students understand the importance of plants in our ecosystem.

Why are plants important for humans and animals?

Discuss how plants provide oxygen, food, and habitats.

What would happen if there were no plants on Earth?

Encourage students to think about the impact on air quality, food supply, and animal habitats.