Plant Life Cycle — Angiosperms

Flowering plants (angiosperms) rule the plant world. Their life cycle connects to the Second Great Lesson's coming of life. Indirect aim: biology, ecology, deep appreciation for the plant world.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Cultural Studies
• Learning area: Botany
• Level: Ages 6-8

Objectives

• Identify the six stages: seed, germination, seedling, mature plant, flower, fruit-with-seeds
• Observe each stage in a class-grown plant
• Understand pollination and fruit formation
• Draw the life cycle

Materials

• Fast-growing seeds (bean, sunflower)
• Pots, soil
• Magnifying glass
• Life cycle cards and chart
• Journal for observation drawings

Instructions

1. Plant bean seeds in clear cups so roots are visible. 2. Observe daily: seed → root → shoot → leaves. 3. Record in journal with drawings. 4. Transfer to soil when ready. 5. Wait for bud, flower, fruit. 6. Study flower parts: stamen, pistil, petals. 7. Observe pollination (indoor by hand, outdoor by bees). 8. Harvest seed from the fruit to start again.

Educator tip

The full cycle takes months. Document with photos. The first flower is a classroom celebration.

Assessment

Observe journal quality, life-cycle sequencing, flower-part knowledge.

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