Title: Plant Classification
Aim: To use the characteristics of two different plants to classify them.
Materials: Two different plants, two A4 pages, sheets of newspaper, heavy books.
Method:
Collect two vastly different plant specimens.
Preserve the plant specimens by carefully placing it between a sheet of newspaper so that its features are fully displayed and placing the newspaper between a book. Place the book under several other books. Leave it there for a few weeks until it completely dries out. If you have done it correctly it should still have its colour.
Examine the plant carefully and note the characteristics of each plant.
On the first sheet of paper, write Specimen # 1 and on the second write Specimen # 2.
Examine the chart below.
For each branch identify which characteristic each plant possesses and write down this feature neatly in a corner of the corresponding paper. E.g. If Specimen # 1 is made up of different tissues then it falls under "Have a differentiated plant body" and this should be written in a corner of the page. If it is made up of single cells then it "Do not have differentiated plant body" and this should be written.
Repeat the previous step for each branch of the chart.
When each branch has been covered, write the name of the group to which the plant belongs.
9. Research the plant and identify whether it is an annual, biennial or perennial.
11. Research whether the plant is a tree, shrub, herb, climber or creeper.
12. Research whether the plant stores its food in its roots, tubers, seeds, etc.
13. Research whether the plant is used for timber, decoration, spices, etc.
14. Make a note of each of the characteristics on the respective sheet of paper.
Observation:
The following is given as an example of what should be included under your observations.
Discussion:
What is classification?
What is taxonomy?
In your own words describe how to classify a plant by its taxonomy.
What is meant by the terms annual, biennial and perennial?
What is meant by the terms tree, shrub, herb, climber and creeper?
What is meant by root, tubers, grains, pulses, seeds and fruits?
What is meant by timber, fibres, spices, food?
Conclusion:
What is the taxonomic classification of each plant?
What are the features of each plant as listed on the sheet of paper?
Reference:
Grade 9 SCCP Curriculum Guide
Image of Plant Classification Chart <https://hi-static.z-dn.net/files/d66/3f56a0f65e7526ed3fc5bdf198432f01.jpg>
Image of Conifer <https://docs.google.com/document/d/1P6BkcGWt6Dlbgao1dxBf8IDzoyMncpdUZxm7j6vn8ks/edit?usp=sharing>