Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 6 to 8

Introduction

To successfully use field guides and plant keys, students need to understand plant anatomy. Illustrations are helpful when teaching aspects of plant anatomy, such as patterns of inflorescence, leaf veining, and plant branching.

Students will use diagrams to learn about plant anatomy and vocabulary. Students will apply their knowledge to play the game Plant Pictionary. Students will be introduced to and will practice using weed field guides and keys that use several different classification systems. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 6 to 8

Introduction

Many flowering plants (angiosperms) produce an abundance of seeds. Some seeds remain viable in the soil; many seeds do not survive. By collecting soil samples and allowing seeds in the soil to germinate, students will discover which plants are represented in the seedbank. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.