Leaves resources

Students explain the function of the veins, waxy layer of the upper surface of the leaf, how the shape of the leaf traps light energy and why the upper surface of the leaf is a darker green than the lower surface.

Task: Use evidence to make inferences about how leaves help plants survive in particular environments. Assessment focus: leaf adaptations.

Task: Look for the similarities and differences in leaf patterns to answer questions about observations and evidence.

Students are provided with some information about testing leaves for starch. They are required to match the steps in the process with their purpose, and to explain what substance is present that turns iodine blue-black.

For this NEMP task students show their understanding of the life cycle, functions and parts of a tree.

Using illustrations from five different beech trees and a key, students are asked to identify which type of beech tree each leaf comes from.

Task: Students use observation and a key to identify native plants. Assessment focus: Using a classification key.