Window Garden

A. Wills
Multiple Subject Teacher

Students will plan, experiment, and observe as seeds grow in a window garden. Students will explore why this is important to the sustainability of our environment.

Grade Level: K - 3rd

Subject:

Length of Time: About 20 Minutes. Several More Days to Watch Growth Process.

Objectives & Outcomes

Learners will be able to discuss and draw representations of each stage of growth of a given plant.

Materials Needed

  • pinto or lima beans (pumpkin seeds or flower seeds also work well)
  • cotton balls
  • water source
  • eyedroppers
  • sandwich bags
  • windows (source or light)
  • tape
  • paper
  • crayons

Procedure

Opening to Lesson

Show students the seeds (or beans) you are planning to plant and ask if they can identify them. (Many students will not be able to at this stage). Ask students what plants need to grow and bloom. Lead a short discussion about what is needed (water, sunlight, etc.)

Body of Lesson

  • Explain to students that they are going to start their own garden, but not outside.
  • Tell students that you have the supplies for the seeds to get started, in the classroom.
  • Show students a baggie with moistened cotton balls inside with seeds lying on the cotton balls.
  • Offer students the materials necessary and have them decide how many cotton balls, how much water, and where seeds should be placed in the baggie.
  • Discuss with students why they are making the choices they are for their plant.
  • Seal the baggie and ask students where the best place to put the baggie would be for the plants to grow (window).
  • Have students tape their baggies in the desired location.

Closing

  • Have students fold a sheet of paper into fourths. Allow students to draw what they just did in the first section. Each day (or every couple of days) have students draw what is happening to the seeds. After about a week (two depending on seeds) the plants can be replanted and allowed to grow to maturity if desired.
  • Discuss why this is important to the sustainability of our environment.

Assessment & Evaluation

Students will be assessed on participation through valid choices and the final drawing of the stages of growth.

Modification & Differentiation

Students may need help putting the plant in the baggie or placing it in an appropriate spot.

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