What Do Plants Need to Grow?

What You'll Learn

Plants need sunlight, water, carbon dioxide, and nutrients from soil to grow. Their roots absorb water and minerals while their leaves capture sunlight for photosynthesis.

Key Words

succession
photosynthesis

Materials Needed

small pots
cotton balls
zip-lock bags

Safety First

Wash hands after handling materials.
Be careful with scissors — ask an adult for help if needed.
Do not look directly at the sun or bright lights.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Review the background information on Ecosystems before starting.

Step 2 — Do

Model natural selection: scatter colored paper scraps on grass. Time how long it takes a partner to pick up each color. Which color survived longest? Why?

Step 3 — Observe

Use your senses (except taste) to describe what you notice.

Step 4 — Record

Write a summary of your findings in 3-5 sentences.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What type of consumer eats only plants?