Students are given an outline of a fair test. They are asked to identify the aim, variables to be controlled, how to judge the results, and an aspect of replication.
For this practical task students investigate water (and dye) movement in a plant when the stem of a daisy is cut lengthwise into three sections. Students record their observations and then explain their results in a scientific way. Key words have been provided.
Students identify the variables to be kept constant, and the variable to be different, when they plan a fair test to show if green plants need light to grow.
For this practical task students are provided with four types of plant storage organs. They classify examples as one of these types of food storage organ. Students also look at the tap root and a tuber and describe the main differences between them.
Students compare drawings of a healthy and unhealthy plant, collect data, and decide which data distinguishes them. This is a mathematics/science resource.
Task: Students interpret information about couch grass from a diagram and explain why its special features make it difficult to get rid of. Assessment focus: special features ensure a plant's survival.
Task: Students read a short written text to explain how the special features of wild ginger help it survive. Assessment focus: explanation of wild ginger's special features and why it is a pest plant.
Four diagrams showing different ways plants store food (tuber, bulb, corm, and a tap root) are provided. Students are asked to identify which method of food storage different plants use. Three short answer questions are also included.
Students are provided with a series of six labelled diagrams showing a bean seed germinating and developing into a small plant with leaves. Students write sentences describing what is occuring at each stage.
On a diagram of a flowering plant, students write in the name of each of the indicated plant parts. They are then asked to name the part that makes seeds, and makes food.
Task: Use written text and pictures to explain how the special features of Old Man's Beard help it survive. Assessment focus: identifying how the special features help this plant to survive.