Introduction to the Garden Scavenger Hunt
OBJECTIVE
Students will explore a garden, observe plant characteristics, and identify various types of crops and plants based on a set of criteria.
ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS
What is growing in our garden?
How do we identify plants?
MATERIALS
Printed worksheets
Writing utensils
Clipboards
PROCEDURE
Introduction:
- Discuss the goal of the activity: to explore the garden and identify plants that fit specific descriptions.
- Review the list and ensure students understand each term:
- Root crop: A plant grown for its edible roots (e.g., carrots, radishes).
- Fruit crop: A plant that produces edible fruits (e.g., tomatoes, strawberries).
- Seed crop: A plant grown for its seeds (e.g., sunflowers, beans).
- Leaf crop: A plant with edible leaves (e.g., spinach, lettuce).
- Flower crop: A plant with edible flowers (e.g., broccoli, nasturtiums).
- Pollinated crop: A plant showing signs of pollination (e.g., a flowering zucchini).
- Annual/Perennial plant: Definitions of life cycle categories.
- Self-seeded plant: A plant that naturally reseeds itself.
- Edible flower: Examples include marigolds or violets.
- Nightshade family: Plants like tomatoes or eggplants.
- Cabbage family (Brassicaceae): Plants like kale or cauliflower.
- Bean/legume family: Plants like peas or lentils.
- Weed: Any undesired or invasive plant.
- Sprout: A young germinated plant.
Exploration
- Instructions for Students:
- Move around the garden and search for plants that match the descriptions.
- Once you identify an item, write its name on the worksheet.
- Observe closely and note characteristics that helped you identify the plant.
- Work individually or in pairs, depending on group size and available space.
- Encourage curiosity by asking guiding questions like, “What part of this plant is eaten?” or “What does this plant remind you of?”
Wrap-Up
- Gather students and discuss findings as a group.
- Share and compare identified plants. Highlight any unique discoveries.
Extensions