lesson
Each part has a job
1 · Learn
Roots anchor many plants and take in water and mineral nutrients. The stem supports leaves and flowers and carries water through the plant.
Leaves use light to help the plant make its own food. Flowers are involved in making seeds. Soil is not the plant's food: minerals and water from soil help the plant, but it makes food using light.
2 · Worked example
I see a plant's leaves held above the soil by its stem. I connect the structure to its job: the stem supports the leaves where light can reach them.
3 · Your turn
Which part takes in water from the soil? Is soil itself the plant's food?
Check your answer
Roots take in water. No: green plants make their own food using light; soil can supply water and mineral nutrients.
4 · Apply your learning
Observe a safe plant with an adult. Draw its visible parts and add one job for each.
Adult guidance and safety
Do not pull up wild plants or taste any plant material. Use a previously potted specimen if roots need to be seen.
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