Dr. Carrie Olson-Manning is a professor of Biology at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. Carrie studies plant genetics and started her research after reading in the Grasslands Plants of South Dakota field guide that the Common Eastern and Showy Western milkweeds hybridize in South Dakota. In addition to lesson plans, the Milkweed Hybridization project also supports a community science project. The community science project invites people to make geolocated, photographic observations of milkweed on iNaturalist.
High School
What makes a milkweed feel at thome? Analyze habitat data where milkweed is considered invasive to learn about niches.
Upper Elementary/Grade 4
Understand and make scientific drawings. Can be leveled up.
Upper Elementary/Grades 3-4
Dissect milkweed pods to learn about structures and functions. Can be leveled up.