54 Plants: Supplemental Guide 2A | Plant Parts
Show image 2A-3: Apple tree
This is an apple tree with many blossoms. This picture was taken in
the spring when the apple blossoms bloom. In the summer, apples
will start to grow and they will be ready to be picked in the fall.You cannot see the roots of the apple tree because they are growing
underground, but we can see many other parts. We can see the many
stems on the tree. The smaller stems are called branches and the
largest stem of the tree is called the trunk.[Point to the stems, branches, and trunk of the tree as students repeat stems,
branches, and trunk with you.]
Stems are important to the survival of the tree because they hold up
the tree and carry water and nutrients to different parts of the tree,
like the leaves and blossoms. Show image 2A-5: Leaves
Here are some leaves from different kinds of trees. Take a close look,
and you will notice that the leaves have different shapes. You can tell
what kind of tree you are looking at by looking closely at its leaves.[If available, pass around different kinds of leaves and name the type of tree
they came from.]
Remember, many plants—not just trees—have leaves.[Point out the leaves on the potted plant.]
Leaves are also very important to the survival of all plants. Leaves
are very important in making sure that plants stay alive. Show image 2A-6: Leaves in sunlightWhen light shines on the green leaves of plants, the leaves absorb
energy from the light. This means that the leaves take in or soak
up the sunlight. The leaves use the light to turn the nutrients, water,
and air inside the plant into food. This amazing process is called
photosynthesis.[Have students say photosynthesis with you several times using a different tone
of voice each time and saying it slowly first and then saying it faster and faster.]
You and I are not able to absorb light and make food for ourselves.
Photosynthesis is something special that plants can do but humans
and animals cannot do.