Kindergarten Grade
Project
16 weeks
Plant Palooza: Growing Native Roots!
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Purpose
This project aims to engage kindergarten students in the exploration and preservation of native Hawaiian plants by fostering a hands-on learning environment. Through collaboration with community partners, students will gain a deeper understanding of plant needs—air, soil, water, and sunlight—while actively participating in the restoration of local flora. By the end of the 16-week project, students will have cultivated living plants, created informative sheets, and developed graphing skills, contributing to the conservation efforts within their community.
Learning goals
Students will explore the essential needs of native Hawaiian plants, including air, soil, water, and sunlight, through hands-on activities and community partnerships. They will develop their understanding by creating detailed diagrams and information sheets, showcasing their knowledge of plant requirements. By engaging with local experts and organizations, students will participate in activities that contribute to the restoration of native plants, culminating in the care and presentation of a living plant. Through this project, students will enhance their observational skills, scientific vocabulary, and ability to represent complex ideas visually.
Standards
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.1: Participate in collaborative conversations with diverse partners about kindergarten topics and texts with peers and adults in small and larger groups.
- NGSS - K-LS1-1: Use observations to describe patterns of what plants and animals (including humans) need to survive.
- Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.K.MD.A.2: Directly compare two objects with a measurable attribute in common, to see which object has "more of"/"less of" the attribute, and describe the difference.
Products
Throughout the project, students will cultivate their own native Hawaiian plants, documenting their growth and care needs. They will create an information sheet that includes drawings and facts about their plant's air, soil, water, and sunlight requirements. Students will also graph the growth of their plants over time, using simple bar graphs to track height or number of leaves. At the end of the project, students will present their living plant and accompanying materials to the class and community partners, showcasing their understanding and efforts in nurturing native plants.
Launch
Begin the project by organizing a visit to a local botanical garden or nature reserve where native Hawaiian plants are thriving. Invite a community partner, such as Malia Stabb, to guide the students on a nature walk, highlighting different native plants and their importance to the ecosystem. After the visit, have the students plant a native seed in small pots, which they will nurture and observe throughout the project. This hands-on activity will spark curiosity and set the stage for understanding the essential needs of plants.
Exhibition
Invite families and community partners to a "Native Plant Celebration Day" where students showcase their living plants and information sheets. Set up interactive stations where students explain the air, soil, water, and sunlight needs of their plants using their diagrams. Include a gallery walk of student-created graphs that track plant growth over time. Encourage students to lead tours of a small native plant garden they helped nurture on school grounds. Conclude with a collaborative planting activity with attendees to expand the garden, reinforcing the community's role in restoration efforts.
Plan
| Week 1 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Introduction to Native Hawaiian Plants - Read a story about native Hawaiian plants and discuss what makes them special in our community (20 min)
Nature Walk and Observation - Take a nature walk around the school to observe plants, focusing on those that are native, and discuss their characteristics (30 min)
Planting Native Seeds - Plant native Hawaiian seeds in small pots, which students will nurture throughout the project (40 min)
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Plant Needs Discussion - Learn about the basic needs of plants (air, soil, water, sunlight) through a guided discussion using visuals (20 min)
Air and Plants Activity - Demonstrate and discuss how plants need air with a simple breathing exercise for plants using a fan and paper leaves (25 min)
Soil Exploration - Explore different types of soil and discuss which types might be best for our native plants using soil samples (45 min)
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Water Needs Experiment - Conduct an experiment to show how water travels through a plant by placing a celery stalk in colored water and observing changes (30 min)
Sunlight and Plants - Use a flashlight and plant models to demonstrate how sunlight helps plants grow, followed by a class discussion (30 min)
Diagram Creation - Begin creating a diagram showing the four needs of plants, using drawings and labels to represent air, soil, water, and sunlight (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Each student will have a planted seed in a labeled pot to care for throughout the project.
2. Deliverable 2: Students will create a simple diagram representing the needs of plants, with labels for air, soil, water, and sunlight. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Gather picture books and visual aids about native Hawaiian plants.
2. Prep Task 2: Coordinate with local parks or school grounds for a nature walk. 3. Prep Task 3: Acquire magnifying glasses for plant observation. 4. Prep Task 4: Source native plant seeds, small pots, and soil for planting activity. 5. Prep Task 5: Prepare art supplies such as paper, crayons, and colored pencils for diagram creation. |
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| Week 2 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Nature Walk Exploration - Begin with a guided walk around the school grounds or nearby area to observe and identify existing plants, focusing on native Hawaiian species; students will document their observations using drawings and simple notes (30 min)
Plant Needs Discussion - Gather as a group to discuss observations from the nature walk and introduce the four basic needs of plants: air, soil, water, and sunlight, using visual aids (20 min)
Create Plant Need Cards - Students will create colorful cards representing each of the plant needs (air, soil, water, sunlight) with illustrations and one simple sentence describing each need (40 min)
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Story Time with a Plant Book - Read a storybook about plant growth or native Hawaiian plants to the students, sparking curiosity and understanding of plant life (20 min)
Seed Planting Activity - Guide students in planting seeds of a native Hawaiian plant in small pots; discuss the steps and care involved in nurturing their plants (40 min)
Introduction to Plant Growth Journals - Students will set up a 'Plant Growth Journal' to record observations and changes in their plant over time, starting with an initial drawing of their planted seed (30 min)
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Guest Speaker Session - Invite a community partner, such as Malia Stabb, to speak to the class about the importance of native plants and their needs, fostering a connection with community efforts (30 min)
Interactive Soil Exploration - Engage students in a hands-on activity to explore different types of soil; students will touch and observe soil samples, discussing which types might be best for their plants (30 min)
Create a Plant Needs Diagram - Collaboratively create a large class diagram that shows how air, soil, water, and sunlight contribute to plant growth, using student-created cards and information from discussions (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed 'Plant Needs' chart with drawings and simple descriptions of air, soil, water, and sunlight.
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| Preparation |
1. Set up materials for the 'Plant Needs Exploration Station,' including small fans, different types of soil, watering cans, and flashlights.
2. Prepare blank 'Plant Needs' charts for students to draw on, with sections labeled for air, soil, water, and sunlight. 3. Gather coloring supplies such as crayons and markers for students to use in their charts. 4. Coordinate with school staff to ensure the learning space is set up for the Exploration Station activities. |
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| Week 3 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Understanding Plant Air Needs - Use breath exercises to feel air and discuss how plants use air, then draw air movement around plants on paper (30 min)
Exploring Soil Types - Investigate different soil samples using magnifying glasses and discuss how soil helps plants grow, focusing on the best soil for native plants (30 min)
Air and Soil Needs Diagram - Add air and soil components to plant needs diagrams started previously using colored pencils (30 min)
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Water Absorption Experiment - Conduct an experiment showing water absorption using sponges to mimic plant roots, followed by a discussion on water's importance to plants (30 min)
Sunlight Exploration - Use solar lamps and plant models to observe how sunlight impacts plant growth, followed by a discussion on sunlight's role (30 min)
Diagram Completion - Complete plant needs diagrams by adding water and sunlight elements, ensuring all components are represented (30 min)
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Graphing Plant Growth - Introduce simple graphing concepts by measuring and recording plant growth, focusing on height or leaf count (30 min)
Information Sheet Creation - Begin drafting information sheets for each student's plant, including details about air, soil, water, and sunlight needs (30 min)
Community Connection - Discuss the role of community partners in native plant conservation and plan a thank-you message or drawing for a partner (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Soil observation drawings and predictions about which soil type will best support plant growth.
2. Plant journal entries with drawings and simple sentences describing the soil exploration activity and predictions. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for soil exploration: small pots, various soil samples (sandy, clay, loamy), magnifying glasses, and seeds.
2. Prepare a simple soil observation chart for the students to use as a guide during their exploration. 3. Coordinate with the school grounds staff to identify areas where students can safely collect soil samples. 4. Ensure students have plant journals available for documenting their observations and predictions. 5. Familiarize yourself with basic soil properties to facilitate the discussion and guide student observations. |
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| Week 4 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Native Plant Observation Review - Revisit observations from previous nature walks and discuss any changes in plant growth, focusing on native species (30 min)
Air Needs Reenactment - Use fans and paper leaves to simulate how air moves around plants, reinforcing the concept of air as a plant need (30 min)
Soil Selection Activity - Engage in a hands-on activity where students choose the best soil for their native plant from a selection of soil types, discussing their reasons (30 min)
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Water Journey Experiment - Conduct an experiment to show how water travels through plant roots using colored water and white carnations, observing changes together (30 min)
Sunlight and Plant Growth - Use plant models and a light source to explore how sunlight impacts plant growth, reinforcing the sunlight's role discussion (30 min)
Growth Graphing - Measure and record plant growth in terms of height or leaf count, updating individual graphs started in Week 3 (30 min)
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Information Sheet Refinement - Continue working on information sheets, adding details about how air, soil, water, and sunlight contribute to the plant's growth (30 min)
Community Partner Exploration - Learn more about community partners involved in native plant restoration and create thank-you cards or drawings for them (30 min)
Final Diagram Presentation - Present completed plant needs diagrams to classmates, explaining each component and its importance to plant life (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Students will create a simple bar graph showing the growth of their planted seeds, recording measurements taken during the week.
2. Students will complete a soil observation sheet with drawings and descriptions of different soil types examined during the exploration activity. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather children's books about native Hawaiian plants for storytelling.
2. Provide soil samples of different types and magnifying glasses for the soil exploration activity. 3. Prepare materials for the 'Plant's Needs Station,' including visual aids and simple experimental setups. 4. Ensure rulers and graph paper are available for measuring plant growth and creating bar graphs. |
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| Week 5 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Observation and Measurement - Observe and measure student plants, recording growth in Plant Growth Journals; discuss changes observed since planting (30 min)
Introduction to Native Hawaiian Plant Species - Explore images and stories of various native Hawaiian plants, focusing on unique features and cultural significance (30 min)
Plant Species Collage - Create a collage representing different native Hawaiian plants using images, drawings, and labels, highlighting unique characteristics (30 min)
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Watering and Care Routine - Guide students in watering their plants and discussing proper care routines, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance (30 min)
Interactive Air Needs Exploration - Use a simple experiment with balloons to demonstrate how plants 'breathe,' followed by a class discussion on air's role in plant health (30 min)
Complete Air and Water Needs Section - Add detailed labels and illustrations to the air and water sections of the plant needs diagram, reinforcing key concepts (30 min)
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Sunlight and Shadow Activity - Use lamps and objects to explore how sunlight and shadows affect plants, encouraging students to observe changes in light and discuss findings (30 min)
Plant Growth Graphing - Update plant growth graphs with recent measurements, allowing students to visualize and comment on their plant's progress over time (30 min)
Review and Reflect - Reflect on the knowledge gained about native plants and their needs, sharing insights and questions with peers in small groups (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Soil Observation Chart: Students will complete a chart documenting their observations of different soil types, including descriptions of texture, color, and composition.
2. Growth Experiment Journal: Each student will maintain a journal with drawings and notes about the seed growth experiment, including observations on soil effectiveness. 3. Soil and Plant Diagram: Students will draw a diagram showing how soil helps support plant growth, including roots and nutrients. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather soil samples from various locations around the school or community garden.
2. Provide magnifying glasses, small shovels, and containers for soil observation. 3. Set up a safe and accessible area for planting seeds in different soil types. 4. Prepare journals and colored pencils for students to document the growth experiment. |
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| Week 6 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Native Plant Exploration and Storytelling - Read a book about native Hawaiian plants and have students share their favorite plant with a partner, focusing on unique characteristics (30 min)
Plant Growth Journals Update - Observe and measure student plants, recording changes in Plant Growth Journals with drawings and simple sentences (30 min)
Introduction to Graphing Concepts - Use a simple graphing activity to introduce the concept of tracking plant growth, using height or leaf count as data points (30 min)
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Community Partner Exploration - Learn more about the community partners involved in native plant conservation efforts through stories or a video, discussing their roles (30 min)
Information Sheet Development - Work on creating detailed information sheets for each student's plant, including air, soil, water, and sunlight needs (30 min)
Thank-You Card Creation - Design and create thank-you cards for community partners, expressing gratitude for their support in native plant conservation (30 min)
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Graphing Plant Growth Exercise - Guide students in updating their plant growth graphs with recent measurements, using simple bar graphs (30 min)
Sunlight and Plant Health Experiment - Conduct an experiment with plant models and light sources to demonstrate how sunlight affects plant health, followed by observations (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing - Encourage students to reflect on their learning about native plants and share insights or questions with classmates in small groups (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed 'Soil Needs' diagram showcasing the importance of soil for plant growth.
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| Preparation |
1. Gather different types of soil samples and place them in labeled containers for the exploration station.
2. Prepare visual aids and props for the 'Journey of a Seed' storytelling session. 3. Obtain clear plastic cups and water for the soil absorption experiment. 4. Pre-cut shapes and drawings for the 'Soil Needs' diagram activity. 5. Set up a discussion area for the reflection and sharing session, ensuring it is conducive to group conversation. |
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| Week 7 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Growth Observation - Observe and measure the growth of student plants, recording findings in Plant Growth Journals (30 min)
Native Plant Storytime - Read a story about the cultural significance of native Hawaiian plants, fostering appreciation and understanding (30 min)
Plant Needs Sorting Game - Engage students in a fun sorting game to categorize various plant needs—air, soil, water, sunlight—reinforcing prior knowledge (30 min)
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Community Partner Video - Watch a video featuring local community partners discussing native plant conservation efforts, followed by a class discussion (30 min)
Information Sheet Enhancement - Work on enhancing plant information sheets by adding illustrations and more detailed descriptions of plant needs (30 min)
Sunlight Experiment - Conduct a simple experiment to explore how different light conditions affect plant growth using plant models and flashlights (30 min)
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Graphing Plant Growth - Update plant growth graphs with the latest measurements, discussing observed patterns and changes over time (30 min)
Thank-You Card Completion - Complete thank-you cards for community partners, incorporating drawings and written messages expressing gratitude (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Gather in a circle to share reflections on the project journey so far, discussing what students have learned about native plants and their needs (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Each student will create a simple bar graph representing their plant's height over the past weeks.
2. Students will prepare a short verbal presentation about the sunlight experiment, sharing their predictions and observations. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather picture books about native Hawaiian plants for the storytelling session.
2. Prepare larger pots, soil, and gardening tools for the transplanting activity. 3. Set up three sunlight stations in the classroom or outdoor area for the mini-experiment. 4. Provide graph templates and colored paper for students to use in the graphing activity. 5. Ensure there is a comfortable space for the class discussion and breathing exercise. |
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| Week 8 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Native Plant Story Circle - Gather students to share stories and experiences related to native plants, fostering a sense of community and connection to local flora (30 min)
Plant Care and Observation - Guide students in watering and observing their plants, recording changes and growth in their Plant Growth Journals (30 min)
Sunlight Exploration Walk - Take a walk around the school grounds to observe how sunlight affects different plants, discussing their observations (30 min)
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Interactive Plant Needs Game - Organize a game where students match different plants to their specific needs (air, soil, water, sunlight), reinforcing their understanding (30 min)
Community Partner Appreciation Discussion - Discuss the role of community partners in the project and plan a collaborative thank-you gesture, such as a group mural or video (30 min)
Information Sheet Finalization - Help students finalize their plant information sheets, ensuring accuracy and completeness in depicting plant needs (30 min)
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Graphing Review and Update - Assist students in updating their plant growth graphs with recent data, encouraging them to discuss patterns they observe (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing Circle - Facilitate a circle where students share their reflections on what they've learned and how they've contributed to native plant conservation (30 min)
Community Partner Thank-You Presentation - Prepare a presentation or display of thank-you cards and gestures for community partners, highlighting students' gratitude and learning (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Complete detailed drawings and labels of soil and plant diagrams.
2. Document observations and descriptions of different soil types. 3. Record data on the growth of planted seeds in journals. 4. Create a simple bar graph representing the growth data collected. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather various soil samples from different locations or purchase soil types for classroom use.
2. Prepare magnifying glasses and containers for soil examination. 3. Contact Hui o Hoohonua to schedule a guest speaker session. 4. Provide drawing and labeling materials such as paper, colored pencils, and labels. 5. Arrange for small pots and native Hawaiian seeds for planting activities. 6. Prepare graph paper and materials for students to create bar graphs. |
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| Week 9 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Growth Observation and Journaling - Measure and document plant growth, focusing on changes in height or leaf count, and update Plant Growth Journals with drawings and observations (30 min)
Native Plant Story Sharing - Read a story about the significance of native Hawaiian plants in local culture and environment, followed by a group discussion on the story's themes (30 min)
Air Needs Experiment - Conduct a hands-on experiment to observe how air quality affects plant growth using simple fan and leaf exercises, and discuss findings (30 min)
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Interactive Soil Exploration - Use magnifying glasses to examine soil samples and discuss which types best support the growth of native Hawaiian plants (30 min)
Plant Needs Role-Play - Engage in role-play activities where students act out the roles of air, soil, water, and sunlight in plant growth, reinforcing understanding through movement and interaction (30 min)
Information Sheet Detailing - Continue working on detailed information sheets for each student's plant, ensuring all plant needs are accurately represented with illustrations and descriptions (30 min)
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Graphing Plant Growth - Update graphs with recent plant measurements, focusing on visualizing growth patterns over time and discussing trends (30 min)
Community Partner Appreciation - Finalize thank-you cards for community partners, ensuring messages express gratitude and understanding of their role in native plant conservation (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing Circle - Gather in a circle to share reflections on the project so far, discussing what has been learned about native Hawaiian plants and their ecological importance (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. A completed class graph illustrating the number of leaves from different plant species identified during the scavenger hunt.
2. Individual life cycle posters for a native Hawaiian plant, showcasing the plant's needs at different growth stages. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather clipboards, pencils, and paper for students to use during the plant scavenger hunt.
2. Prepare a large sheet of paper or whiteboard for the class graph, including markers for students to use. 3. Collect images or examples of native Hawaiian plants to help students with their life cycle posters. 4. Ensure access to the school grounds or a suitable outdoor area for the plant scavenger hunt. |
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| Week 10 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Growth Observation and Documentation - Measure the growth of student plants and document findings in Plant Growth Journals, focusing on changes since Week 9 (30 min)
Community Partner Storytime - Share stories about community partners involved in native plant conservation, fostering connections and understanding of their impact (30 min)
Plant Needs Game - Engage in a sorting game to reinforce understanding of air, soil, water, and sunlight needs for plants, encouraging collaborative learning (30 min)
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Interactive Plant Needs Review - Conduct a hands-on activity where students match plants to their specific needs, reinforcing their knowledge of plant requirements (30 min)
Graphing Plant Growth - Update plant growth graphs with recent measurements, discussing observed changes and patterns with peers (30 min)
Sunlight Experiment - Demonstrate the effects of different light conditions on plant growth using plant models and light sources, followed by observations and discussion (30 min)
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Information Sheet Enhancement - Work on enhancing plant information sheets by adding detailed illustrations and descriptions of air, soil, water, and sunlight needs (30 min)
Community Partner Appreciation Project - Collaboratively create a mural or video expressing gratitude to community partners for their role in native plant conservation (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing Circle - Facilitate a group discussion where students reflect on their learning journey and share insights on native plant conservation efforts (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed soil observation chart
2. Soil diagram with labels |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather various soil samples for exploration (e.g., sand, clay, loam)
2. Prepare materials for soil diagram creation (e.g., paper, colored pencils, labels) 3. Select and prepare a storybook related to plants and soil 4. Set up a small area with different soil samples for hands-on exploration 5. Organize a chart template for students to record soil observations |
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| Week 11 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Growth Observation and Measurement - Measure and observe the growth of student plants, recording height and leaf count, and update Plant Growth Journals with drawings and observations (30 min)
Native Plant Story Reflection - Share stories about native Hawaiian plants and discuss their significance in local culture and ecosystems, fostering appreciation and understanding (30 min)
Air Quality Experiment - Conduct a hands-on experiment using fans and paper leaves to observe how air quality affects plant growth, discussing findings in pairs (30 min)
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Interactive Soil Analysis - Use magnifying glasses to examine different soil samples and identify which types best support native Hawaiian plants, discussing observations (30 min)
Plant Needs Role-Play - Act out roles of air, soil, water, and sunlight in plant growth, using movement and interaction to reinforce understanding (30 min)
Detailed Information Sheet Creation - Continue developing information sheets for each student's plant, ensuring all plant needs are accurately represented with illustrations and descriptions (30 min)
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Graphing Plant Growth Trends - Update plant growth graphs with recent data, focusing on visualizing patterns over time and discussing trends with classmates (30 min)
Community Partner Appreciation Cards - Finalize thank-you cards for community partners, expressing gratitude and understanding of their role in native plant conservation (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing Circle - Share reflections on the project journey so far, discussing what has been learned about native Hawaiian plants and their ecological importance (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Students will complete a labeled plant collage, showcasing their understanding of plant parts and their functions.
2. Students will update their plant journals with drawings and observations from the garden visit, reflecting on plant growth and parts. 3. Students will set up and begin a light exposure experiment with bean seeds, which they will continue to observe and document in the coming weeks. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather a selection of age-appropriate books about native Hawaiian plants for storytime.
2. Prepare materials for the plant collage activity, including pre-cut paper, glue, and craft supplies. 3. Ensure magnifying glasses are available for the garden observation session. 4. Prepare clear cups, soil, and bean seeds for the light exposure experiment. 5. Set up a simple chart or graph for students to record their light experiment observations over the coming weeks. |
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| Week 12 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Growth Observation and Documentation - Measure and observe the growth of student plants, recording changes in Plant Growth Journals with drawings and simple sentences (30 min)
Native Plant Story Exploration - Read and discuss a story about native Hawaiian plants, emphasizing their cultural significance and ecological roles (30 min)
Air Quality Experiment - Conduct an experiment using fans and paper leaves to explore how air quality affects plant growth, followed by a discussion on findings (30 min)
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Interactive Soil Exploration - Use magnifying glasses to examine different soil samples, discussing which types best support native Hawaiian plants (30 min)
Plant Needs Role-Play - Engage in role-play activities where students act out the roles of air, soil, water, and sunlight, reinforcing understanding through movement (30 min)
Information Sheet Detailing - Continue enhancing information sheets for each student's plant, ensuring detailed representation of air, soil, water, and sunlight needs (30 min)
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Graphing Plant Growth Trends - Update plant growth graphs with recent measurements, focusing on visualizing growth patterns over time and discussing observed trends (30 min)
Community Partner Appreciation Cards - Finalize thank-you cards for community partners, ensuring messages express gratitude and understanding of their role in native plant conservation (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing Circle - Gather in a circle to share reflections on the project journey so far, discussing insights gained about native Hawaiian plants and their importance (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed plant information sheets with detailed diagrams and facts.
2. Updated bar graphs reflecting the growth of students' plants. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for terrarium building, including small jars, soil, pebbles, and native plant seeds.
2. Arrange a meeting with Hui o Hoohonua representatives to facilitate the discussion. 3. Prepare graph paper and measuring tools for students to record plant growth. 4. Ensure all previous observation notes and drawings are organized and accessible for students to finalize their information sheets. |
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| Week 13 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Care and Observation - Guide students in watering and caring for their plants, observing any changes and recording them in Plant Growth Journals (30 min)
Native Plant Story Exploration - Read a story about the journey of native Hawaiian plants and discuss their role in the local ecosystem (30 min)
Interactive Air and Soil Needs Game - Engage in a sorting game to reinforce understanding of air and soil's role in plant growth, encouraging collaborative learning (30 min)
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Graphing Growth Progress - Update plant growth graphs with the latest measurements, discussing observed patterns and changes with peers (30 min)
Role-Play Plant Needs - Act out scenarios demonstrating air, soil, water, and sunlight needs, reinforcing understanding through movement and interaction (30 min)
Information Sheet Enhancement - Work on adding final details and illustrations to the plant information sheets, ensuring they accurately represent plant needs (30 min)
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Reflection and Sharing Circle - Facilitate a group discussion where students share reflections on their learning journey and insights on native plant conservation efforts (30 min)
Community Partner Appreciation Project - Collaboratively finalize a mural or video expressing gratitude to community partners for their role in supporting native plant conservation (30 min)
Graphing and Analysis Review - Conduct a review of plant growth graphs, encouraging students to analyze and discuss trends observed throughout the project (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed bar graphs illustrating plant growth over time.
2. Drafts of information sheets about each plant, including initial drawings and written facts. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prepare rulers and plant journals for students to record and measure plant growth.
2. Provide graph paper or digital tools for students to create bar graphs. 3. Gather reference materials and images about the air, soil, water, and sunlight needs of native Hawaiian plants to support student discussions. 4. Prepare templates or guidelines for drafting information sheets to help students organize their work. |
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| Week 14 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Growth Observation - Observe and measure plant growth, recording changes in Plant Growth Journals with drawings and notes (30 min)
Native Plant Storytime - Share a story about the cultural significance of native Hawaiian plants, encouraging students to relate it to their own experiences (30 min)
Interactive Plant Needs Review - Engage in a game that reinforces understanding of air, soil, water, and sunlight needs, using interactive cards (30 min)
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Community Partner Interaction - Watch a video or presentation from a community partner discussing their role in native plant conservation (30 min)
Information Sheet Finalization - Complete and refine plant information sheets, ensuring all plant needs are clearly illustrated and described (30 min)
Graphing Plant Growth - Update plant growth graphs with recent data, discussing patterns and trends observed with classmates (30 min)
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Role-Play Plant Needs - Act out scenarios demonstrating air, soil, water, and sunlight needs, reinforcing understanding through movement and interaction (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing Circle - Facilitate a group discussion where students share reflections on their learning journey and insights on native plant conservation efforts (30 min)
Community Partner Appreciation Presentation - Prepare a presentation or display of thank-you cards and gestures for community partners, highlighting students' gratitude and learning (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Updated Information Sheet detailing the current status of their plant, including any changes observed during the week.
2. Mini Diorama showcasing the essential needs of their native plant. 3. Storytelling Presentation where each student shares the journey of their plant, highlighting the role of air, soil, water, and sunlight. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for the diorama activity, including colored paper, clay, natural elements, glue, and markers.
2. Coordinate with community partners to ensure guidance and support during the garden visit. 3. Prepare storytelling prompts and visual aids to help students structure their narratives for Friday's activity. |
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| Week 15 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Plant Growth Observation and Final Measurements - Guide students to observe and measure their plants, documenting the final growth data in their Plant Growth Journals and noting any significant changes (30 min)
Information Sheet Final Touches - Assist students in making final additions and corrections to their plant information sheets, ensuring all plant needs are clearly represented with illustrations and descriptions (30 min)
Preparation for Presentation - Begin organizing materials and practicing how students will present their plants and information sheets during the exhibition (30 min)
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Graphing Growth Completion - Have students finalize their growth graphs by adding the last set of measurements and discussing overall patterns observed throughout the project (30 min)
Exhibition Rehearsal - Conduct a practice session where students rehearse presenting their plants and information sheets to peers, focusing on clear communication and confidence (30 min)
Community Partner Reflection - Facilitate a discussion reflecting on the role of community partners in the project, encouraging students to share their appreciation and insights gained from these relationships (30 min)
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Exhibition Setup - Collaborate with students to arrange and organize the classroom for the upcoming Native Plant Celebration Day, setting up stations for plant presentations and interactive displays (30 min)
Final Presentation Preparation - Provide time for students to go over their presentations one last time, ensuring they are ready to share their learning about native Hawaiian plants with families and community partners (30 min)
Community Partner Thank-You Presentation - Finalize and rehearse a group presentation or gesture, such as a mural or video, expressing gratitude to community partners for their support throughout the project (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Each student will complete an observation journal entry with notes and drawings from the nature walk.
2. Deliverable 2: A group-created detailed drawing of a native plant with labeled parts and needs, to be displayed in the classroom. 3. Deliverable 3: Each student will complete a simple bar graph showing the growth of their class plant over the project period. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Gather magnifying glasses and observation journals for each student for the nature walk.
2. Prep Task 2: Prepare art supplies, including paper, colored pencils, and plant labeling templates for the drawing activity. 3. Prep Task 3: Coordinate with the school's maintenance team to prepare the garden area for planting, ensuring tools and materials are available. 4. Prep Task 4: Provide graph paper and a model graph for students to use as a reference when creating their growth charts. |
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| Week 16 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Exhibition Preparation - Rehearse final presentations and ensure all materials, including plant information sheets and growth graphs, are complete and ready for display (30 min)
Native Plant Celebration Day Setup - Collaboratively set up the exhibition space, arranging student projects and creating interactive stations for visitors (30 min)
Reflection and Sharing - Reflect on personal growth and learning throughout the project, sharing insights and favorite moments with peers (30 min)
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Native Plant Celebration Day - Host the exhibition for families and community partners, where students present their living plants and explain their care needs using diagrams and information sheets (60 min)
Interactive Gallery Walk - Guide visitors through a gallery walk of student-created graphs and projects, encouraging students to explain the patterns and data they have observed (30 min)
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Collaborative Planting Activity - Participate in a planting activity with families and community partners to expand the native plant garden, reinforcing the community's role in restoration efforts (45 min)
Community Reflection Circle - Gather with students, families, and partners to discuss the impact of the project on understanding and preserving native Hawaiian plants (30 min)
Project Closure and Celebration - Celebrate the completion of the project with a closing ceremony, recognizing student achievements and contributions (15 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Final presentation of living plants and information sheets at the "Native Plant Celebration Day".
2. Completed growth graphs displayed during the exhibition. 3. Demonstration of understanding through interactive stations and guided tours led by students. |
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| Preparation |
1. Ensure all plants are healthy and ready for exhibition.
2. Prepare materials for interactive stations, including visual aids and any demonstration tools. 3. Coordinate with community partners and families for attendance on the "Native Plant Celebration Day". 4. Arrange logistics for the collaborative planting activity, ensuring sufficient tools and plant materials are available. |
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