SEED GERMINATION

Dec 19

The goal of this lesson is to explore the process of seed germination and understand the scientific principles behind plant growth.

blue gradient background with soundwaves — add pic of seed germination happening??

Lesson 1

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Gather materials – plastic bag, paper towel, seeds, water dropper, tape, marker.
Step 2: Fold the paper towel to fit inside the plastic bag.
Step 3: Dampen the paper towel—moist, but not soaking.
Step 4: Place the seeds on the towel and seal the bag.
Step 5: Label with your name and seed type.
Step 6: Tape the bag to a sunny window.
Step 7: Check every few days—remove rotting seeds, keep the paper towel moist.
Step 8: Once the seedlings reach the top, carefully pot them!

Watch this video to follow along with the experiment:

How Seeds Grow & Why It Matters

Seed Anatomy

Seed Coat: Protects the seed.
Embryo: Baby plant inside.
Cotyledon: Stores food for early growth.

Germination Process
1. Water Absorption: Seed swells, coat breaks.
2. Energy Activation: Stored food is converted into energy.
3. Root Emergence: Roots grow down for water.
4. Shoot Growth: Stem and leaves push upward.
5. Seedling Stage: Leaves form, photosynthesis begins.

Photosynthesis: How Plants Make Food

Ingredients Needed:

Sunlight: Provides energy.
Water: Absorbed by roots.
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): Taken from the air.

The Process:
Plants use sunlight to mix CO₂ and water, creating:
Glucose (sugar): Food for the plant.
Oxygen (O₂): Released into the air.

Why It’s Important:

Produces oxygen for us to breathe.
Powers the food chain.
Helps plants grow into the fruits, vegetables, and trees we rely on!

Respiration: How Plants Use Energy

Opposite of Photosynthesis: Instead of making food, respiration breaks food down for energy.

Process:

Oxygen + Sugar → Energy for growth.
Produces CO₂ and water as waste.

Why It Matters:

Keeps plants growing, repairing, and surviving—even at night
Provides energy for fruit, flowers, and new seeds.

How Plants Drink Water

Osmosis: Water moves from high to low concentration through plant roots.