Plant Roots and Their Jobs (Part 2)

What You'll Learn

All living things share basic characteristics: they grow, reproduce, respond to their environment, and need energy to survive. Plants make their own food through photosynthesis, while animals must eat other organisms.

Key Words

nutrients
prey
ecosystem

Materials Needed

ruler
magnifying glass
paper towels

Safety First

Do not mix unknown chemicals together.
Tie back long hair before starting the experiment.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Review the background information on Ecosystems before starting.

Step 2 — Do

Collect and classify 10 organisms from your yard into kingdoms, phyla, or groups. Use a dichotomous key if available.

Step 3 — Observe

Look for patterns in your observations.

Step 4 — Record

Make a graph or chart showing your results.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What is germination?