Putting It All Together

After collecting your data, print out a Flower Lab Sheet for each group. Hold a class discussion about the function of each part of the flower observed under the microscope. Each group should be able to support their ideas with observations they made.

The diagram below shows the names of each of the parts of a flower (get this diagram as a handout).

Parts of the Flower Diagram

Try to match the labeled parts in the diagram to the parts you examined in your flower. Now label each of the flower parts on the photo on the Flower Parts Handout (get Flower Parts answer key).

Extensions

Once students have identified the basic parts of the flower, they can now compare and contrast different flowers. Provide them a variety of flowers to dissect. Each group can study a different flower, taking images of the pistil, anther, and ovules, and petals. Have students describe similarities and differences between the plants. The class could make a website to illustrate what they have learned about flowers.

Flowers come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and scents to attract different pollinators. After students have learned the parts of the flower, they could conducting an investigation to learn more about patterns some flowers have to attract pollinators.

Another extension can include planning and growing a flower garden to attract pollinators, particularly pollinators such as bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. See the Resources section for possible web sites to learn more about planning and planting a garden.

Modifications

As this activity is written, it is expected that pairs or small groups of students share a computer and go through each step of the activity. This activity can also be adapted to a whole class setting, using a projection device to allow all students to see the screen. This would be good to do during a class discussion as well, to allow the class to observe each flower structure as they discuss its hypothesized function.

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