Schools - KS 3 & 4 - Science

Does your class have green fingers? Grow some of the plants from the site to carry out a variety of scientific investigations, including observing cell structure and researching factors effecting plant growth. Why not work with the food technology department in order for students to use their plants in the preparation of a healthy balanced meal.
  

Cell structures

Grow garlic, mango, tamarind, chilli, ginger, turmeric and holy basil. Look at their cell structure under the light microscope.

Key National Curriculum Links at KS3 and 4

Cells and cell functions
KS4 Sc2 1a about the similarities and differences between plant and animal cells.

Food and nutrition

  • What is food? Brainstorm ideas and concepts.
  • What do we eat? Pupils keep a food diary. Used for discussion about the choices we make, benefits and costs.
  • Investigate which Plant Cultures plants are important sources of nutrients. What are the health effects of not getting these nutrients?
  • At home collect food packets and recipe ideas, which contain plants from the Plant Cultures site. Analyse the nutritional data on the label.
  • Grow garlic, mango, tamarind, chilli, ginger, turmeric and holy basil. Work with the food technology department and incorporate these ingredients into recipes.
  • Research vegetarianism. Why do people choose to become vegetarian? Debate the issues as a class.
  • Establish a school garden. Grow food for healthy eating. Encourage gardening for fitness and health.

Key National Curriculum Links at KS3 and 4

Humans as organisms

Nutrition
KS3 Sc 2 2a about the need for a balanced diet containing carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, fibre and water, and about foods that are sources of these