Children can learn so much if they patiently and systematically observe a seed as it sprouts and grows over the course of several weeks. Of course, they can learn even more if they can follow this process through an entire growing season and watch (and document!) the transformation from seed to photosynthesizing plant to flower and then back to seed. Whether this fascinating process begins with a seed in a dampened paper towel (stored in a plastic bag and taped to the classroom window), or in a tray of peat pots, or outside in a raised garden bed, your students should be encouraged to witness and enjoy these amazing transformations. Encourage them to document their discoveries with drawings, dates, measurements, and words.
For young children, observations are best discussed, illustrated, and written (to the degree possible) as a whole class or group project. However, for third graders and above, student-illustrated notebooks are very useful. Simple charts (such as those included here) can be helpful as well. Here’s a basic template for recording the remarkable metamorphosis of a seed into a growing, photosynthesizing plant. Happy sprouting!
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