Plant Life Cycle Journal
Grow bean sprouts and document observations in a science journal over two weeks.
Learning objectives
- Identify the stages of a plant's life cycle: seed, sprout, seedling, plant
- Make and record observations over time using drawings and words
- Understand that plants need water, light, and soil to grow
- Practice patience and scientific observation habits
Step-by-step instructions
- 1
Day 1 — Plant your seed
Students fill their cup with soil, poke a small hole, and place 2 seeds about 2 cm deep. Water lightly. Draw the seed in their journal and label it. Place cups in a sunny spot.
- 2
Days 2–4 — Daily check-ins
Each day, students check their cup, water if the soil is dry, and draw what they see. Prompt: Has anything changed? What do you notice about the soil?
- 3
Days 5–7 — First sprout
Most seeds will sprout by day 5–7. Students draw the sprout, measure its height in centimeters, and label the parts they can see. Discuss: What does the plant need to keep growing?
- 4
Days 8–14 — Track growth
Students measure and record height every 2 days. They add drawings to their journal showing how the plant changes. Compare journals with a partner.
- 5
Final reflection
Students draw the full life cycle (seed → sprout → seedling → plant) and write one sentence about what they learned. Share journals and celebrate their growing scientists!
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