A collaborative STEM informed resource for teachers of SBI3C
created by Jennifer Baluk, Cheryl Madliger, and Alex Procenko
PLANTS IN THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT LESSON SAMPLES
PLANTING THE SEED: AN INTRODUCTION
In this jam-packed introductory lesson, we check in with students' prior knowledge using about plants before covering some basics. Students make predictions about whether or not plant cuttings will propagate, and we briefly review photosynthesis and factors affecting growth using a digital video game.
In this multi-day lesson, students explore concepts related to biodiversity and the role of plants in the sustainability of the natural environment. The case study confronts students with issues around native plants and urban farming, bringing curriculum content to life. Later, students will present their stance in a mode of their choice.
"A WILD DECISION" CASE STUDY
In this outdoor lesson, students will really see plants in their natural environment! Examples of plant tropism and adaptations will be pointed out along a walk together, before pairs of students break out to try to identify plants species, differentiating between gymnosperms, angiosperms, ferns, and mosses.
A WALK IN THE WOODS
PLANT DESIGNER
Why would one plant have flat leaves, and another needles? What's up with waxy plants? In this lesson, students gain an appreciation for plants' adaptations to their environment when they become plant designers. After drawing an environment at random, they must design the perfect plant to survive and thrive there!
