Plant in a Tree

Walking through a wooded backyard, I noticed that there was an old tree that was hollowed out in the center. Inside the hollowed out space there were dried out plants coming out from the inside. At first, I thought an animal may have built a nest inside of the space. Upon further investigation, I discovered that the plants were actually growing inside of the tree.

Driving Question

• How did the plant get inside of this tree?

Probing Questions

• What does a plant need to grow? 
• How does a plant begin its life cycle?
• How would a seed be able to get inside a hole in a tree?

Classroom Suggestions

Students could:

• Read about the life cycle of a plant and how seeds spread from one place to another. 
• Go on a scavenger hunt and look for seeds. Sort them by similarities.
• Create a list of seed examples. Discuss what we know about each seed and what characteristics each has. 
• Create a chart showing different ways seeds can be disbursed. Have students come up with some examples of seeds that might go in each section.

Relevant Related Resources

How Do Plant Seeds Travel? | YouTube: This video tells about different ways seeds are dispersed. It explains how the wind and water can play a part in their dispersal as well as animals. The video is a mix of animation and real people. There are videos and photos of real life examples. (5:46)
Simulate an Exploding Seed Pod | Around the Kampfire: This lesson contains instructions on how to simulate an exploding seed pod. It includes how to do research before, materials needed and how to put it together. At the end, students have a chance to collect data as well.​​​​​​​
Pollination and Seed Dispersal Activity | Generation Genius: This site is limited for free but you can watch videos, learn vocabulary, do an activity, read articles about the topic, answer questions, and find assessments to connect your learning,