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Plant investigations
Learners will design their own experiments to see what plants need to grow well. As a class, learners first discuss what a plant requires to grow. Then in groups, learners will investigate a variable each by designing a planting investigation. Learners might investigate a question like does it matter how deep you sow the seed?
The basis of this investigation does lend itself to more advanced enquiries, about the impact of soil pH or different fertilisers, if you'd like to use it with older learners.
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Preparation
What you need
- sunflower seeds
- squared paper and pencils for recording
- rulers
- identical plant pots with drainage holes
- watering can
- compost and a little sand
- sunny, part-shaded and shaded areas
Location
Outdoors
Resources
LtL Planting Investigations Guidance.pdf
466.06 KB
Step by step
- Download the guidance in the resources section.
- Read the guidance for step by step instructions.
Curriculum links
Plants
- observe and describe how seeds and bulbs grow into mature plants
- find out and describe how plants need water, light and a suitable temperature to grow and stay healthy
Working scientifically
- observing closely, using simple equipment
- performing simple tests
- gathering and recording data to help in answering questions
Plants
- explore the requirements of plants for life and growth (air, light, water, nutrients from soil, and room to grow)
Working scientifically
- setting up simple practical enquiries, comparative and fair tests
- making systematic and careful observations and, where appropriate, taking accurate measurements using standard units, using a range of equipment, including thermometers and data loggers
- gathering, recording, classifying and presenting data in a variety of ways to help in answering questions
- recording findings using simple scientific language, drawings, labelled diagrams, keys, bar charts, and tables
What to try next
Three ways to share your findings
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