CU 4.01Planting Seeds and What Plants Need
The child plants a seed, cares for it daily, and learns that plants need water, light, air, and soil to grow.
Presentation
- 1
Show a seed: 'This is a seed. A new plant can grow from it.'
- 2
Scoop soil into the pot until it is nearly full.
- 3
Poke a hole with one finger to the first knuckle, drop in the seed, and cover it.
- 4
Water slowly until the soil is damp but not flooded.
- 5
Write the child's name on the label and place the pot on the sunny windowsill.
- 6
Show the chart: 'A plant needs water, light, air, and soil to grow.'
- 7
Each day, check the soil with a finger and water only if it is dry. Mark the chart.
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- Draw the plant every few days in an observation booklet
- Grow two plants: one in light and one in a dark cupboard; compare after a week
- Grow two plants: one watered and one not watered; compare
- Plant seeds in the school garden in spring and care for them outdoors
Control of error
The plant itself: it grows when its needs are met, and it droops or turns pale when they are not. Damp or dry soil can be felt with a finger.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Plants a seed independently with the right depth and amount of water
- Checks the soil before watering
- Names the four things plants need
Guide note
Utah's dry air dries pots quickly; check daily. Avoid castor beans and other toxic seeds.