Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

Botanists have traced the migration of weeds as they spread across the country. However, much of the information about weed migration is incomplete and lacking in detail. By conducting research on a noxious weed in their area, students will understand how noxious weeds spread and why noxious weeds can be problematic. Students will write historical fiction that describes how the weed arrived in their area. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

Invasive weeds can quickly disrupt an ecosystem. Weeds often have no natural enemies, and many weeds have developed adaptations that enable them to successfully overcome native plant populations. Weed seeds in particular have developed adaptations that enable the seeds to survive a wide range of environmental conditions.

Students will learn about how weeds disrupt an ecosystem and the functions of seeds in general. After learning about unique seed adaptations that some invasive weeds have developed, students will apply their knowledge to design a weed and its seed for use as a biological weapon. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

Weeds have developed excellent adaptations to aid in dispersal of their seeds. A weed’s ability to readily disperse its seeds contributes to the weed problem. Wind plays an important role in the dispersal of many of the most problematic weed seeds. Students will design weed seeds and test the seeds to determine how long they remain aloft and how far they travel by wind.

For best results, conduct the Activity in late summer or early fall when most weeds have gone to seed. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

Botany plays a part in the process scientists use to solve crimes. Scientists often use plants, especially weed seeds, to help solve crimes. Students will be introduced to the science of forensic botany. Students will solve an imaginary crime by identifying weed seeds, determining the environmental conditions the seed requires, and identifying those environmental conditions on a map that shows the potential crime scenes. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.