The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project
Growing a Plant From Seed: Part 2
Growing a Plant From Seed: Part 2
A [2nd] Grade STEM Lesson
Amy DePuydt
10/22/2023
Notes for Teachers
If you pick clear cups to plant the seeds in, students can view root system.
Teachers should review lab procedures, and safety procedures before beginning lab.
List of Materials
Standards
Arizona Science:
2.L2U1.9 Obtain, analyze, and communicate evidence that organisms need a source of energy, air, water, and certain temperature conditions to survive.
2.L2U1.10
Develop a model representing how life on Earth depends on energy from the Sun and energy from other organisms.
Math:
2.MD.A.2 Measure the length of an object twice, using different standard length units for the two measurements; describe how the two measurements relate to the size of the unit chosen. Understand that depending on the size of the unit, the number of units for the same length varies.
Objective(s):
To provide students with a hands-on experience of growing plants from seeds while learning about the plant life cycle, seed germination, and plant needs.
Agenda (lesson time)
This lesson will take one class period or approximately 45 min.
Follow ups for measurements over the next few weeks.
Students will plant seed and answer reflection questions.
Intro/Driving Question/Opening
Show this time lapse video of a bean growing Growing Beans Time Lapse
to spark interest and talk about the importance of providing plants with sunlight, water, and nutrients.
Hands-on Activity Instructions
Seed planting:
Distribute planting pots or cups to each student
Fill each pot with potting soil, leaving about an inch at the top.
Push one seed in the middle of the pot about half an inch. Cover seed with soil.
Lightly water the soil, ensuring that it is wet but not soaked.
Record the date seed was planted on data chart.
You can cover cups with plastic wrap to create a greenhouse until they sprout out of the ground.
Plant Care:
Place the pots in a location that receives sunlight.
Water the plants as needed, ensuring the soil remains moist.
Observe the plants daily and record their growth in the data chart.
Measure the height of each plant using a ruler and record measurements. (This can be done in centimeters and inches to meet the math standard)
Discuss with students the importance in providing plants with sunlight, water and nutrients for their growth.
Assessment
Students will complete a data chart, recording observations and measurements throughout the experiment.
Students will answer reflection questions in writing, showing their understanding of the plant life cycle, seed germination, and plant needs.
Differentiation
Teacher can assist students in measuring plants and recording data.
Students may need support in measurement. This can be done in small groups, with a partner, or supported with a video.
Remediation
Extension/Enrichment
Students can grow other types of seeds at home.
�If students can see the roots growing (like in the video), they can record root growth and compare it to growth of the sprout.