Kindergarten students at West Dodge Station Elementary have kicked off an engaging new unit all about plants and how they grow. As part of their lessons, kindergarten teachers are using hands-on projects to give students in-depth learning opportunities.
To introduce the core concepts of plant anatomy and life cycles, students created “Grass Head” projects by planting grass seeds in a cup, then personalizing their planter with stickers to create a unique face. As the unit progresses, students will be able to observe the parts of the plants and track the life cycle of growing grass. Students are also learning the principles of plant care by daily tending to their heads and discussing what they need to grow—specifically, water, sun, soil, and air.
In addition to their grass heads, students are also observing the life cycle of a plant in full detail through their “Pumpkin Jack” project, which involves a piece of carved pumpkin being placed in a sealed jar. This “Pumpkin Jack” is now a classroom fixture, and it will provide a unique opportunity to observe the natural process of decomposition and the eventual signs of a new life cycle emerging in the spring.
By tending to their Grass Heads and closely watching their Pumpkin Jack, these young learners aren’t just memorizing facts; they are building a foundation for curiosity and responsibility. The hands-on plant adventures at West Dodge Station Elementary are ensuring that lessons about growth, change, and the natural world will continue to blossom long after the unit is complete.
