Plant a Seed: Observing Germination Day by Day

You plant a bean seed in a clear cup with soil. On Day 1, what should you write in your science journal before the seed begins to grow?

A seed needs certain things to germinate. Name three things most seeds need to start growing.

On Day 2, your seed looks larger and the seed coat looks wrinkly. What might be happening to the seed?

Look at a germinating seed. A tiny white part is growing downward first. What is this part called, and what will it do?

On Day 4, you see a small green shoot pushing up through the soil. What job will the shoot have as it grows?

Your class waters one seed every day and does not water another seed. After five days, the watered seed has a root, but the dry seed has not changed. What does this show?

Why is it important to observe your seed at about the same time each day?

A student writes, 'My plant is getting taller.' How could the student make this observation more useful?

Use the data: Day 1: 0 cm, Day 3: 1 cm, Day 5: 4 cm, Day 7: 7 cm. What pattern do you notice in the plant's height?

After several days, the seedling has small leaves. Why are leaves important for the young plant?