Spreading seeds 1

Spreading seeds 1

Pencil and paper
Overview
Using this Resource
Connecting to the Curriculum
Marking Student Responses

Seeds need to be spread away from their parent plant so that they get plenty of light, space, and water to grow. Many seeds have special features to help make sure they are carried away.
  

Coconut

 

 

Hookgrass

Strawberry


 


Dandelion seed head

 

Complete this table. Fill in the seed name, and then explain why the seed is able to spread in this way. The first one has been done for you.  

 

Method of spread

 Seed name Explain why the seed is able to be spread in this way
On animals' coats Hookgrass Because hookgrass seeds have hooks that hang on to animals.
a)  By wind    
b)  By water    
c)  Eaten by animals    

 

Task administration: 
This task can be completed by pencil and paper.
Level:
4
Curriculum info: 
Science, Investigating in science, Living World
Keywords: 
Life processes, plants, seeds, seed dispersal
Description of task: 
Students complete a table by explaining how 3 different seed types are able to be dispersed.
Curriculum Links: 
Capability: Use evidence
This resource provides opportunities to discuss that good science explanations are supported by evidence.
 
Science capabilities: 
Use evidence
Making Better Sense: 
Seed Dispersal
Answers/responses: 
 

Y8 (06/99)
a) Dandelion: because the seed is light or describes the "parachute". moderate
b) Coconut: because the seed is light enough to float (because of spongy fibres containing air spaces. Other seeds may float because they are simply light enough. Larger seeds need to have air spaces.) difficult
c) Strawberry: seeds pass through animals' intestines/come out with droppings. difficult