3rd Grade Science Standard: L.OL.E.3 Structures and Functions- Organisms have different structures that serve different functions in growth, survival, and reproduction.
L.OL.03.31 Describe the function of the following plant parts:
flower, stem, root, and leaf.
It All Begins With a Seed
A great way to show children the baby plant or embryo inside of a plant is to soak green bean seeds overnight. As children can gently peel off the seed coat, the seed will easily break in two pieces. They will be able to clearly see the embryo, just as the picture indicates. This is a great diagram to draw and label into their science journals.
The Functions of Plant Parts
Hold on Tight! The Root System has four main functions:
1. Absorption of water and nutrients.
2. Anchoring the plant body into the ground.
3. Storage of food and nutrients.
4. Prevents soil erosion.
Stand Tall! The Stem - The plant stem has two main functions:
1. They support the leaves and flowers.
2. They carry water and food from place to place within the plant.
The Powerhouse of the Plant! The Leaf -
Leaves are the major site of food production for the plant. This process is called photosynthesis.
1. Absorption of water and nutrients.
2. Anchoring the plant body into the ground.
3. Storage of food and nutrients.
4. Prevents soil erosion.
Stand Tall! The Stem - The plant stem has two main functions:
1. They support the leaves and flowers.
2. They carry water and food from place to place within the plant.
The Powerhouse of the Plant! The Leaf -
Leaves are the major site of food production for the plant. This process is called photosynthesis.
From Flower to Fruit
The flower, sometimes known as a bloom or blossom, is the reproductive structure found in flowering plants. After the flower is fertilized, the ovary of the plant matures, and either becomes what we sometimes think of as a nut, a fruit or a vegetable. Tomatoes, apples, almonds are all ripened ovaries. All of these items contain the seeds that will generate the next plant.
More Activities
Plant Seeds in a mini-greenhouse and watch them sprout.
Graph the growth of the plants.
Draw a diagram of the plant parts: Leaf, Root, Stem, Flower
Make (and taste!) fresh salsa made with fresh tomatoes in anticipation of the fruit to come!
Plan a field trip to Mott Gardens – Applewood Estate or a local greenhouse.
Graph the growth of the plants.
Draw a diagram of the plant parts: Leaf, Root, Stem, Flower
Make (and taste!) fresh salsa made with fresh tomatoes in anticipation of the fruit to come!
Plan a field trip to Mott Gardens – Applewood Estate or a local greenhouse.