Articles tagged as "7 -11 (KS2)"

Using Holly in the Lab

Holly makes a useful resource for the science lab, with investigations around topics including stomata, plant defences, herbivory and adaptation.

Using Spinach in the Lab

Spinach leaves are easily available all the year round, and make great resources for investigating photosynthesis and chromatography.

Using Aspidistra in the Lab

Great plants for the lab, aspidistra make wonderful subjects for a range of classic investigations into photosynthesis.

Using Pelargoniums (Geraniums) in the Lab

Geraniums are often found in the school lab, but they're rarely used to their full potential as a scientific resource. Follow our guidance and care tips to ensure they flourish in your lab.

The Structure of Flowers

Diagram of a dissected flower with stamens and carpel, in this case a Brassica rapa (fast plant)

The Structure of a Flowering Plant (Brassica rapa)

Diagram of a flowering plant, in this case a Brassica rapa ('fast plant') showing the root and shoot systems.

Fast plants for finer science - an article from the Journal of Biological Education

An article introducing 'fast plants' (rapid-cycling brassicas) for use in the classroom.

Student Sheet 2 - Growing and caring for rapid-cycling brassicas

'Fast plants', or rapid-cycling brassicas, are a fascinating way to look at all sorts of biology topics, including plant growth, tropisms, floral reproduction, pollination, embryonic development, and genetics. This student worksheet introduces how to care for the rapid-cycling brassicas.

Student Sheet 1 - Planting instructions for rapid-cycling brassicas

'Fast plants', or rapid-cycling brassicas, are a fascinating way to look at all sorts of biology topics, including plant growth, tropisms, floral reproduction, pollination, embryonic development, and genetics. This student worksheet introduces how to plant the rapid-cycling brassicas.

Student Sheet 5 - Investigating Seed Germination

A simple experiment to investigate the germination of seed under different conditions, by growing seeds upright in Petri dishes. It allows students to make quantitative measurements of root / shoot growth, length of root hairs, etc, as well as % germination. This technique can also be used for investigations into the effect of acid rain.

Student Sheet 7 - Demonstrating Gravitropism in Seedling Stalks

An intriguing way to demonstrate gravitropism in action over the course of a lesson, using the hypocotyls (stalks) of small seedlings. Students may be surprised to see how quickly the seedlings respond to gravity.

Student Sheet 9 - Growing Radishes in Film Cans

Radishes provide a cheap and reliable way to carry out a number of investigations into plants, including nutrient requirements, effects of growing conditions, etc. This protocol outlines a simple method of growing radishes that can be used in the school lab.

How can I model a plant cell at KS3?

What do you need to model a plant cell? Our team has some ideas to get you started - how creative can you be?

'Fast Plants' - Rapid-Cycling Brassica Kits

Kits for 'fast plants' - follow the complete life-cycle of these fast plants in only half a term!

Investigations with Carnivorous Plants: science club activity

Carnivorous plants can capture your pupils' imagination with a wide range of cunning tactics to deceive and entrap their prey. In addition a variety of experiments can be performed on the remarkable digestive physiology of these plants. These make great activities for a STEM science club, or as a an activity for a gardening club when it rains.