Before the Unit Begins

Welcome, Educators, to Plant Adaptations: Past and Present!

We encourage you to read over ALL of the lessons before you begin teaching the unit. The information below is specific to the science investigations.

  • There are several documents in this folder that you will need to review before you prepare for the science investigations in this unit:
    • Science at a Glance is a snapshot of materials you will need to prepare ahead of time; the full instructions are in the lesson.
    • Representative Plants has suggestions for live specimens you can use for the observations in the unit.
    • Day 1 Teacher Instructions explains how to make the simulated “fossil digs” for Day 1.
      • Each simulated fossil dig used in Days 1–3 are intended for use in teams of 4–5 children. If your classroom is not sharing materials, we suggest you prepare a fossil dig for every 4–6 students. Students may excavate one at a time at a central location in their designated dig. The teacher can assign someone in each group to piece together the “fossil.” See lessons for Day 1–3 for more information.
  • Additionally, here are some other preparations that need to be made ahead of time:
    • The Plant Observation Chart can be printed on 11 x 17 copy paper. However, to give children adequate space for writing, we suggest reproducing the document by hand on a sheet of chart paper. Making the chart larger allows multiple children to add more information easily.
    • You will need to collect leaves for Day 5. See the Day 5 lesson for more information.
    • All PowerPoint images can be copied in color for individual use. However, we recommend using electronic devices if possible.
    • Air-dry clay should be divided among teams or individual students. They only need a small amount to make fossils on Day 4. See the Day 4 lesson for more information.
  • For field testing, many materials have been provided. You will need to supply other basic materials, such as newspaper or paper towels; measuring cup; extra goggles, hand lenses, measuring tapes or rulers; materials for the culminating project; etc.
  • All of the supplementary print and visual materials you need to conduct the lessons are found in each day’s folder.