In the Classroom: Science-Lit Activity for Grade 4 & 5 Students

During a planning period, create a worksheet with a three-column data table that lists all the plants in A Seed is the Start (column 1) and how the seeds are dispersed (column 2). Lave column 3 (Plant Part that Helps) blank.

When your class returns, read the book and use the information in it to create a data
 table like this one.

Next, pass out the worksheets, and invite students to find a buddy and complete column 3 (Plant Part that Helps) using information from A Seed is the Start. Be sure to let the class know that, in two cases, the book does not have sufficient information. Their completed worksheets should look similar to this:

Now invite each duo to join with one or two others to create four groups—Wind, Water, Self, and Animal. After giving each tea an index card with their team name written on it, invite students to choose a plant from their worksheet that disperses in the way written on the index card. Students will pretend to be a seed from that plant and write a letter to a seed that disperses in the following way:

Wind disperser à Water disperser

Water disperser à Self disperser

Self disperser à Animal disperser

Animal disperser à Wind disperser

Each letter should explain (1) how the seed is dispersed, including what plant parts help it move, and (2) why they think their dispersal method is best, including potential problems with other kinds of seed dispersal. Allow time for volunteers to share their letters with the rest of the class.

4-LS1-1. Construct an argument showing that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction.