Science Experiments
Lima Bean Science Experiment Instructions
Unit 1
Materials Needed
Seed
Moist paper towel
Clear plastic bag
Heavy tape
Instructions
In order to further emphasize this concept, the teacher leads the children in planting a lima bean seed in front of the class.
The lima bean seed is planted in a clear plastic bag with a very moist paper towel and taped to a window that gets sun. This allows the class to observe what happens to the seed and seedling over time, modeling the processes that are occurring outside in the garden.
Over the next 12 sessions, the teacher measures and charts the lima bean’s growth using a ruler (taking the measurements might be too complicated for the children, so they can watch the teacher measure the plant).
Note that the teacher should periodically check the paper towel to make sure that it stays moist. If it starts to dry out, sprinkle some more water on the towel so that it will continue to provide water for the seed germination.
Celery Experiment Instructions
Unit 4
Materials Needed
Celery stick
Water
Jar
Blue food coloring
Instructions
In order to demonstrate that plants are filled with water, the teacher leads the children in the Celery Experiment.
Be sure to use celery that is fresh and firm.
Cut a small section off the bottom of a celery stick.
Place the celery stick in a jar filled with water that has been colored with 4-5 drops of blue food coloring.
Over time the water will diffuse through the celery, turning it blue.
(This experiment should be started at the beginning of the lesson in order to show the best results.)
Leaf Drying Experiment Instructions
Unit 4
Instructions
To reinforce the need for water, the teacher will lead the Leaf Drying Experiment. As the children head back to the classroom have them pick a leaf from the garden and place it in a safe place in the classroom. The leaf will slowly dry out to demonstrate what happens to the leaf when it becomes dehydrated.
Teachers can check the leave at the next lesson (if desired) to show how the plant dries out and dies if it doesn’t have enough water