CU 5.01Planting Seeds and What Plants Need

1. 1

   Show a seed: 'This is a seed. A new plant can grow from it.'

2. 2

   Scoop soil into the pot until it is nearly full.

3. 3

   Poke a hole with one finger to the first knuckle, drop in the seed, and cover it.

4. 4

   Water slowly until the soil is damp but not flooded.

5. 5

   Write the child's name on the label and place the pot on the sunny windowsill.

6. 6

   Show the chart: 'A plant needs water, light, air, and soil to grow.'

7. 7

   Each day, check the soil with a finger and water only if it is dry. Mark the chart.

What catches the child’s eye

• Poking a hole in soft soil with one finger, as deep as the first knuckle
• The first green shoot pushing up through the soil after days of waiting

Extensions, easiest to hardest

1. Draw the plant every few days in an observation booklet
2. Grow two plants: one in light and one in a dark cupboard; compare after a week
3. Grow two plants: one watered and one not watered; compare
4. Plant seeds in the school garden in spring and care for them outdoors