Rocket Ryan presents Primarily Plants

Last week we were fortunate enough to have Rocket Ryan come back for another visit! This time we learned all about plants!!

To start out, the children learned about chlorophyll. They each got to scrape a spinach leaf and see what that huge word really means! It was really neat for them to actually get to see what it looks like and understand a little better what it actually does- helps the plants absorb light to aid in photosynthesis. 

Next, the students dissected Lima bean seeds to see the parts of a plant up close and personal! They learned about the outer shell or seed coat and got to see the parts of the seed that eventually turn into seedlings and later into plants. 

Next, we did a little experiment that mimics plants making their own glucose type food during photosynthesis. 

The students mixed together dish soap, vinegar, and baking soda to imitate how plants use water, sunlight, and soil to create food. 

They also learned some great science vocabulary like beaker and graduated cylinder. 

They added the baking soda last and boy did they get a surprise! Adding these three ingredients together created a type of energy that the children just loved!! In the same way, during photosynthesis plants create a similar energy. 

During this segment, they also learned about safety during scientific experiments. Don't they look adorable in their little goggles!?

For our last experiment of the day, the children each got to plant their own Lima Bean seeds to observe. 

First, they had to make a little hole for their seeds. 

Then they used another scientific instrument called a pipette to give their plant plenty of water. 

Finally we had to give them a little sunlight so that they could grow. 

Most of the plants went home, but we still have a few at school. I will give you an update once we're back from this blizzard!

While Rocket Ryan got everything cleaned up, the children got to have a little free time to experiment with the tornado bottles. They love those things! I especially love that Rocket Ryan has little monopoly houses in his- I'll have to remember that next time I make one!