Seed Spread Simulation
Changing Environments
20 minutes
Whole class active participation
Movement
Learning Objective
Understand how plants spread seeds through interactive simulation
Materials Needed
- Paper 'seeds' (different shapes and sizes)
- Fan or large cardboard for wind
- Baskets for collecting
- Velcro dots for 'sticky' seeds
- Old socks or mittens
Preparation
- 1Create different types of paper seeds
- 2Set up open space for activity
- 3Prepare Velcro 'seeds' and collection materials
- 4Practice different seed spreading methods
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Scatter paper seeds in the center of the room
- 2Use fan to blow seeds around (wind dispersal)
- 3Children wear socks/mittens and walk through Velcro seeds (animal dispersal)
- 4Discuss: 'How do seeds travel to new places?'
- 5Act out different methods: wind blowing, animals carrying, water floating
- 6Collect seeds in baskets representing new growing places
Assessment
- Does the child understand different ways seeds spread?
- Can the child participate in the simulation activities?
- Can the child explain how seed spreading helps plants?
Extensions
- Look for real seeds around school and identify how they spread
- Create seed art projects
- Plant seeds and watch them grow
- Make up stories about traveling seeds
Teaching Tips
- Make it active and fun
- Connect to children's experience with seeds sticking to clothes
- Use movement to reinforce learning
- Discuss how this helps plants survive in new places