This book features activities, games, and crafts about gardening for children aged 6 to 12. The organization of the book is based on the seasons and the activities emphasize learning through fun. The spring section includes: (1) "Creating Your Own Vegetable Garden"; (2) "Safe Spraying"; (3) "What to Grow"; (4)…

Flowers are not only pretty, they are also one of the key elements in the process of plant pollination and reproduction that goes from flowers to fruits to seeds! In All About Plant Pollination: Fruit, Flowers & Seeds, young scientists learn about the different parts of a flower through the use of microscopic photography and detailed diagrams.…

Describes an experimental project that uses plant tissue culture techniques to examine cell differentiation in the carrot. Allows students to gain experience in some important techniques and to explore fundamental questions about cell differentiation. (DDR)

Presents a creative way to teach photosynthesis. Revolves around the growth of a lily planted and stored in the classroom. Combines the concepts of particle theory, transformation, and changes of phase and mass in a holistic approach. The six-step teaching sequence is founded on the notions of challenge, variation, and drama. (Author/NB)

Presents an activity to create a garden to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Students increase their environmental awareness and discover the rewards of community service. (NB)

Describes the Sonoran Desert, the hottest desert in North America. Discusses management challenges, recreation, exotic plants, threatened and endangered species, American Indian traditional cultural places, and riparian areas. Presents classroom activities aimed at educating youth about the area's many distinctive features and the importance of…

Presents ideas for spring flower displays. Has students constructing their own interactive flower displays as extra-credit assignments to reinforce vocabulary and scientific concepts, and modeling flowers with household items. (JRH)

Describes how to observe and study the fascinating world of insects in public parks, backyards, and gardens. Discusses the activities and habits of several common insects. Includes addresses for sources of beneficial insects, seeds, and plants. (nine references) (JJK)

Describes a simple, relatively inexpensive laboratory activity that allows students to examine the requirements for the fungal decay of wood and devise methods for prevention. (ZWH)

Ways in which linear lesson sequences can be modified to provide increased opportunities for open-ended activities especially with problem solving are considered. Examples drawn from chemistry and plant reproduction, seeds, and germination are given. (KR)

Presents a demonstration to show students how wind and temperature can influence the rate of transpiration in a plant. Lists supplies needed and steps for the procedure. (NB)

Presents an activity that addresses cultural differences and diversity through ethnobotany. Offers a multicultural framework designed to develop concepts about plant characteristics and taxonomy. (ASK)

Presents two exercises on the study of tropisms. Discusses gravitropism control mechanisms present in plants. (ASK)

Presents a soybean project designed with an interdisciplinary approach that includes the stages of planting soybeans, studying the impact of rhizobium bacteria on soybean root development, synthesizing the raw oil to methyl ester, testing of biodiesel on a hybrid electric car, and studying the commodities market. Integrates plant science,…

Presents three science activities targeted to help urban students learn about nature: (1) observing coloration patterns of pigeons; (2) measuring local rainfall and comparing it to other areas; and (3) conducting a biodiversity study by observing a patch of lawn. (YDS)