Seed Germination and Plant Life Cycle

Mrs. Knobby introduces second-graders to life cycles, focusing on plants. She explains the life cycle of an apple tree through the seasons, discusses seed anatomy, and introduces the Three Sisters planting method. Students are guided through a seed germination project using a plastic bag greenhouse. The lesson concludes with a preview of future topics on plant life cycles.

What is the main idea behind the concept of a life cycle?

• It is a one-time event.

• It is a random sequence of events.

• It is a circle that repeats itself.

• It is a straight line from birth to death.

During which season do apple blossoms get pollinated in Arnold's apple tree?

• Winter

• Fall

• Spring

• Summer

What is the function of the seed coat in a seed?

• To provide food for the plant

• To protect the seed

• To help the seed float

• To attract pollinators

What is the role of the 'belly button' or hilum in a seed?

• It is where the seed attaches to the parent plant.

• It stores food for the seed.

• It helps the seed to float.

• It attracts pollinators.

In the Iroquois legend, which plant acts as a trellis for the beans?

• Squash

• Corn

• Pumpkin

• Sunflower

What is the purpose of the squash in the Three Sisters planting method?

• To attract pollinators

• To provide a trellis for beans

• To add nitrogen to the soil

• To serve as mulch and shade

What is the first step in setting up the seed germination experiment?

• Label the plastic bag

• Plant the seeds in soil

• Place the seeds in sunlight

• Soak the seeds in water

Why is it important to leave some air in the plastic bag during the seed germination experiment?

• To prevent the seeds from drying out

• To allow the seeds to breathe

• To keep the seeds warm

• To help the seeds float

What should you do if you notice mold in your seed germination bag?

• Remove the moldy seeds

• Ignore it and continue the experiment

• Add more water

• Place the bag in direct sunlight

What is the purpose of recording observations in the seed germination journal?

• To compare with other students

• To create a drawing of the seeds

• To write a story about the seeds

• To track the growth of the seeds