GERMINATION OF PLANTS

There are many books in the library on germination of plants. At this age, it is important that the girls understand that the seed coat needs water to split open, so that the seed on the inside can start to grow into a plant. Plants also need sunlight and oxygen to grow.

Experiment - Nano Beans.
You will need:
- aclear container like a prescription bottle (with no label),
- 1 eye hook,
- 4 cotton balls,
- chickpea or large seed,
- water,
- wool or string for the necklace.

Screw the eye hook into the lid of the bottle and thread the wool or string through so that girls can tie it around their necks (use 3 colours and the girls can practice braiding). Place 2 cotton balls in the bottle and wet them a little, next place the seed into the bottle so that they can "see" out, place the other 2 cotton balls on top and wet again. Do not soak or the seed will rot. Tell the girls that they should not need to water it again but they need to take the lid off during the night. Once the seed begins to grow you can then plant in soil.

Plan a Science and Tech meeting or sleepover- call Science and Innovators in the Classroom for more information: 1-800-363-1611

If you have any questions or you need some Science and Technology ideas, contact us and we'll be glad to help!