FOSS Next Generation Plants and Animals

Grade 1

The Plants and Animals Module provides experiences that heighten students’ awareness of the way that plants and animals meet their basic needs. They observe plant structures and discover ways to propagate new plants from mature plants (from seeds, bulbs, roots, and stem cuttings). Students design terrariums and provide for the needs of both plants and animals living together in the classroom.

Investigation 1: Grass and Grain Seeds

Students plant rye grass and alfalfa. They mow their miniature lawns and observe the response of grass and alfalfa to cutting. They plant individual wheat seeds in clear soda straws and observe how grain seeds germinate and grow.

Investigation 2: Stems

Students make new plants from the stems of houseplants. They put sections of stems into water and look for evidence that a new plant is forming. Stem pieces that develop roots are planted to make new plants. Students plant pieces of potatoes (modified stems) and observe them grow. They learn about how plants make food.

Investigation 3: Terrariums

Students set up terrariums using seeds and plants from Investigations 1 and 2. They add local animals such as snails, isopods, and worms and provide for the needs of the plants and animals.

Investigation 4: Growth and Change

Students plant onion bulbs or garlic cloves in moist cotton and observe as they develop into new plants. They plant parts of roots—carrots and radishes—to discover which parts will develop into new plants.