Scientists who study plants are called botanists. Botanists collect plant parts. Then they observe them closely. Observe means to look very carefully.
Today you will be a botanist! You will go outside and collect plant parts. Look for leaves, stems, and roots that have already fallen. You can also pull a small weed to see its roots. A magnifying glass makes small things look big. It helps you see tiny details, like root hairs and stem lines.
Botanists also measure what they find. You will use a ruler to measure your stems. Remember to write down everything you notice. Good scientists always record their observations!
1. What is a scientist who studies plants called?
2. What does a magnifying glass do?
3. Why should scientists write down what they see?
Safety rules for collecting:
1. Ask an adult before pulling any plant.
2. Never touch plants with three shiny leaves. They might be poison ivy!
3. Wash your hands after touching plants and soil.
You need: a bag, a magnifying glass, a ruler, and an adult helper.
Step 1: Walk outside and collect 3 stems and 1 plant with roots.
Step 2: Look at each part with your magnifying glass.
Step 3: Measure each stem with your ruler.
Step 4: Record what you find on the next page.
Sort the plant parts you found into the correct boxes.
| Roots I Found | Stems I Found | Other Parts I Found |
|---|---|---|
Measure each stem. Write what you observe with the magnifying glass.
| Stem | Length (inches) | Color | Bendy or stiff? | What I saw up close |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stem 1 | ||||
| Stem 2 | ||||
| Stem 3 |
| Question | My Answer |
|---|---|
| What color are the roots? | |
| Are the roots thick or thin? | |
| Do you see tiny root hairs? | |
| Was the plant hard to pull from the soil? Why? |
Draw your favorite plant part exactly as you see it through the magnifying glass.
Write about your collection walk. What did you find? What surprised you the most?
Pretend you can invent a new kind of root. It must hold a plant in a very windy place. Draw your super root design below. Label the parts!
How does your super root hold on tight?
1. Which was easier to find outside, stems or roots? Why do you think so?
2. What is one new thing you learned today?
3. What question do you still have about roots or stems?