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Resources: Plant Theme (PreK-3)
Resources for the Plants Theme
(All Grade Levels)
(From Amberlee, Cheri, Crystal, Fraser and Marlee)
Included: Fiction, non-fiction, poetry,
websites, videos as well as experiments and
activities to use while teaching plants
in an elementary school level.
Ancient Ones; The world of the Old-Growth Douglas Fir
Bash, Barbara
In lyrical prose and vividly realized watercolour paintings, the ongoing drama of the old-growth world is captured as the life cycle is traced of the Douglas fir and a forest.
Grade 4
Apples: How they grow
McMillan, Bruce
This book reveals the miniscule stages of an apple’s growth.
Grade 2-4
A First Look At The World Of Plants. (1978).
Selsam, Millicent.
Examines the distinguishing characteristics of plants which help enable scientists to classify them. Puzzles and a matching game are included.
A Forest is Reborn
Newton, James R.
Describes how a forest renews itself through a process called plant succession after a destructive fire.
Grade 3
A Seed Grows; My First Look at a Plant’s Life Cycle
Hickman, Pamela
With flaps to open, easy-to-read text and informative illustrations, it is fun for young children to explore and understand the amazing world of nature.
Grade 1
A Tree is Growing
Dorros, Arthur
Follow the oak tree through the seasons from the unfolding of new buds in the spring to the dropping of colourful leaves in the fall. An explanation is also offered on the roles of each part of a tree. Beautiful illustrations.
Grade 3
Cactus in the Dessert. (1979).
Busch, Phyllis
Explains how cacti survive in the desert where there is very little water.
Can We Save Them?
Dobson, David
An informative text and engaging illustrations bring to life species of endangered animals and plants. From the beautiful cui-ui to the Puerto Rican parrot, the dangers each species faces and suggest ways to restore its natural environment.
Grade 4
Canadian Trees
Mastin, Colleayn O.
An informational book on Canadian trees and their uses.
Grade 3
From Seed to Plant
Gibbons, Gail
Explores the intricate relationship between seeds and the plants which they produce.
Grade 1
Growing Colors
McMillan, Bruce
Photographs of green peas, yellow corn, red potatoes, purple beans, and other fruits and vegetables illustrate the many colours of nature.
Kindergarten
How do Apples Grow?
Maestro, Betsy
This book reveals how apples grow from bud to flower to fruit. Clear diagrams show the parts of a flower and the processes of pollination and fertilization.
Grade 1-2
How a Seed Grows. (1992).
Jordan, Helene.
Uses observations of bean seeds planted in eggshells to demonstrate the growth of seeds into plants.
In The Pond. (1984).
Ermanno, Cristini & Luigi Puricelli
Illustrations present a wordless panorama of the marshy wetlands where a variety of fish, birds, animals, and plants share a habitat.
Learning about Plants: Resource Book
Moore, Jo Ellen and Joy Evans
Teacher resource pages, student worksheets, plant picture cards, “All About Apples” activity unit.
Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 1
Life Cycle of a Bean
Royston, Angela
An introduction to the life cycle of a bean from the time it is first planted until, four months later, it has grown as tall as an adult person.
Grade 2
Life Cycle of an Oak Tree
Royston, Angela
Introduces the life cycle of an oak tree, from the sprouting of an acorn through its more than 100 years of growth.
Grade 2
Looking at Plants
Suzuki, David
An informational book on plants and their purposes. Lots of hand-on experiments.
Grade 4
Plant Life: Cycles in Nature
Greenaway, Theresa
Enter the fascinating world of plants. Follow their cycle from seed to germination, growth, reproduction, and back to seed again. Try some of the activities inside to see the amazing processes for yourself.
Grade 3
Plant Wise
The Federation of Ontario Naturalists
Fascinating facts and amazing activities to make YOU plant wise.
Grade 2-5
Practical Plants
Pope, Joyce
As well as providing the living world with life-giving oxygen, plants also give us many useful products. An explanation of how people have used and exploited plants since the beginning of time. A detailed description of the many different plants that have been cultivated to provide people with the basics of life – food, warmth, shelter and clothing.
Grade 4
Seeds Grow
Walker, Colin
An introduction to different types of seeds and what they need to grow.
Grade 1
Taking Root
Fowler, Allan
This colourful, fact-filled Science book describes for very young readers the physical features of roots and why they are so important to our environment.
Kindergarten-Grade 2
Tell Me, Tree: All about Trees for Kids
Gibbons, Gail
A guide to the wide variety of trees that surround us. A description of different kinds of trees and how to identify them, as well as the many parts of a tree, inside and out, with cutaway illustrations and labels. The book also includes an explanation of photosynthesis and a special section on how to make a tree identification book of your own.
Grade 3
Tiger Lilies and Other Beastly Plants. (1984)
Ring, Elizabeth.
Describes several plants that remind us in some way of animals, including the foxglove, pussy willow, skunk cabbage, and snapdragon.
The Kids Canadian Tree Book
Hickman, Pamela
An informational book on Canadian trees. There are also some hands-on activities to explore their nature and purpose.
Grade 3
The Story of Rosy Dock
Baker, Jeannie
The plant rosy dock is not native to Australia. A newcomer who settled in the desert area of central Australia planted it in her garden. After each rare period of rain the desert blossoms, and over the years the seeds of this plant from the other side of the world have blown their way across south, central, and western Australia.
Grade 5
The 100-year-old Cactus
Holmes, Anita
In the Arizona desert grows the extraordinary saguaro cactus. This book describes the growth on saguaro from a barely visible seed to a healthy, vigorous plant. It takes nearly 100 years for a saguaro to achieve maturity, and as a fully grown cactus, it provides food, moisture, shade, and refuge for the wildlife of the desert.
Grade 4-5
The Most Beautiful Roof in the World: Exploring the Rainforest Canopy
Lasky, Kathryn
Describes the work of Meg Lowman in the rainforest canopy, an area unexplored until the last ten years and home to previously unknown species of plants and animals.
Grade 4
Tree Flowers. (1984).
Selsam, Millicent.
Text and drawings follow the growth cycle of twelve common flowering trees: Pussy willow, white oak, sugar maple, elm, apple, horse chestnut, flowering dogwood, magnolia, witch hazel, black walnut, black locust, and tulip tree.
Wildflowers of Canada
Fitzharris, Tim
Photographs and descriptions of thousands of flowering plants that enrich the Canadian landscape.
Grade 5
A Handful of Seeds
Hughes, Monica
When Concepcion’s grandmother dies, she is forced to leave their farm for barrio. But she takes along her grandmother’s legacy: chilli, corn, and bean seeds. Concepcion discovers that, even in the city, her handful of seeds holds the key to her survival.
Grade 2-3
Carla’s Sandwich
Herman, Debbie
Carla brings weird sandwiches to school. Sure enough, her classmates have plenty to say. Buster is the meanest of all, but after discovering he has forgotten his lunch one day, he tries one of Carla’s creations and loves it! Soon everyone is creating their own unique sandwiches and discover that “unusual” can be surprisingly terrific. (This book can be used in a Science lesson regarding the importance of plants. Nearly everything in Carla’s sandwiches can be traced somehow back to plants.)
Grade 2-4
Cecil’s Garden
Keller, Holly
It was time to plant the garden. But then the trouble started. No one could agree on what to plant, and soon it was too hot to work. Sadly, Cecil leaves his family and goes off to visit the neighbours. When Cecil returns home, he knows how to solve the garden problem. And when harvest time comes, there was no disagreement at all!
Grade 1-2
Cinderlily: A Floral Fairytale. (2003).
Ellwand, David.
A plant twist on the traditional tale of Cinderella. Illustrations are created with various flowering plants.
Growing Vegetable Soup. (1987).
Ehlert, Lois.
A father and child grow vegetables and then make them into a soup.
How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? . (2007).
McNamara, Margaret.
Charlie’s teacher brings in three pumpkins to school, small , medium and large. She asks the students to guess which one contains the most seeds. After everyone has had a chance to predict they open them up and find out.
How a Shirt Grew in the Field. (1992).
Rudolph, Marguerita.
Vasya, a little Russian boy, watches and waits through the seasons for the flax to grow that will be spun and woven into material for his new shirt.
In the Children’s Garden
Schaefer, Carole Lexa
Children are welcome at an urban garden where they plant seeds, watch them grow and enjoy their harvest.
Grade 2
In the Heart of the Village
Bash, Barbara
This book captures the soul of the ancient and sacred banyan, painting a vivid picture of its importance to the people and other animals that flourish beneath and within its welcoming branches. It provides a unique glimpse of the interconnectedness of life in a rural culture.
Grade 4-5
Jack and the Beanstalk
Beck, Ian
The classic tale of a daring lad, a beanstalk that springs up overnight, a singing harp, a hen that lays golden eggs, and a giant with a taste for grilled boy on toast.
Grade 1-2
Mighty Tree. (1992).
Gackenbach, Dick.
Three seeds grow into three beautiful tress, each of which serves a different function in nature and for people.
Planting a Rainbow. (1988).
Ehlert, Lois.
A mother and child plant a rainbow of flowers in the family garden.
Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf. (1991).
Ehlert, Lois.
A child describes the growth of a maple tree from seed to sapling.
Seeds! Seeds! Seeds!. (2004)
Wallace, Nancy.
Buddy Bear learns about different seeds and their uses when he opens a package sent by his grandfather.
Stone Soup
Muth, Jon J.
Hok, Lok, and Siew, journey along a mountain road trying to understand what makes one happy. At once the monks encounter frightened villagers who lock their windows and darken their homes. The villagers have long been ravaged by harsh times, and their hearts have grown hard toward everyone they meet. But when the monks cleverly entice them to make soup from stones, the villagers discover how much they each have to give—and how much more comes back in return.
Grade 2-4
Sunflower
Ford, Miela
Watch what grows from one small seed! Planted in the ground, carefully watered, faithfully watched, the seed begins to grow. And grow. And grow.
Kindergarten to Grade 1
The Apartment House Tree
Killion, Bette
This book introduces readers to the inhabitants of one special tree.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
The Apple Trees
French, Vivian
Vivian French and her daughter, Nan, had an apple tree in their garden. It was very old. Then they planted a new young tree to keep it company. Season by season, they watched their two trees grow and change…and all the time Nan was growing and changing too.
Grade 2-3
The Big Seed
Howard, Ellen
Bess was the smallest in her class. When everyone chooses seeds to plant for a school project, Bess chooses one big seed from a packet that features yellow flowers-small like Bess. But when she takes her seedling home for the summer and plants it in the garden, a surprising thing happens-Bess’s big seed grows into a flower that’s just the right size.
Grade 1-2
The Magic School Bus: Plants Seeds, A Book About How Living Things Grow
Cole, Joanna
Ms. Frizzle’s class is growing a beautiful garden. But, Phoebe’s plot is empty. Her flowers are back at her old school! So, the class climbs aboard the Magic School Bus. And, of course, the kids don’t only go back to Phoebe’s school, but they go inside one of Phoebe’s flowers! Follow the kids’ adventure and learn how living things grow.
Grade 2
The Seasons of Arnold’s Apple Tree
Gibbons, Gail
Arnold has his very own secret place—his apple tree—and this bright and welcome book lets readers everywhere share the fragrance of its blossoms, the crunch of its fruit, and the gold of its autumn leaves.
Grade 1-2
The Tiny Seed
Carle, Eric
This book tells the fascinating story of the life cycle of a flower in terms of the adventures of a tiny seed.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
The Wind’s Garden
Roberts, Bethany
In simple verse and vibrant pictures, this book tells of the beauty of a tended garden, and of one made by nature.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
They Call Me Appleseed John
Glass, Andrew
There are many tales about Johnny Appleseed. Most tell of his courage, generosity, and potent green thumb. Many people didn’t know that the real Johnny Appleseed, John Chapman, was a tale spinner himself…
Grade 2-4
Weslandia. (1999).
Fleischman, Paul.
Wesley’s garden produces a crop of huge, strange plants which provide him with clothing, shelter, food, and a drink thus helping him create his own civilization and changing his life.
Where Once There Was a Wood. (1996).
Fleming, Denise
Examines the many forms of wildlife that can be displaced if their environment is destroyed by development and discusses how communities and schools can provide space for them to live.
Where the Forest Meets the Sea
Baker, Jeannie
This book takes us on a visit to the tropical rain forest in North Queensdale, Australia. We walk among the ancient trees and pretend it is a long time ago, when extinct and rare animals lived in the forest and aboriginal children played there. But for how much longer will the forest be there?
Grade 1
Poetry
Sky Tree: Seeing Science through Art
Locker, Thomas
A record of the changes in a tree through poetry and paintings. Questions are found at the bottom of each page to further ones thinking.
Grade 1 – 3
The Reason for a Flower
Heller, Ruth
A colourful book that teaches the many purposes of a flower through interesting word plays and illustrations.
Grade 2
Arty Facts: Plant & Art Activities
Crabtree Publishing
Plant art activities with step-by-step directions.
Grade 1-5
At Home Science: Dig and Sow! (2000)
Lobbs, Janice
Introduces various scientific principles about botany and plants and presents simple experiments and illustrations.
Experiments with Plants
Byles, Monica
Why are plants so important? Experiment with plants and you will learn: how to sprout seeds at home, why plants are green, how one plant can help you predict the weather, why some plants eat insects, and how to grow your own rain forest. Dig into the fun and discover the world of plants!
Grade 2-5
Junior Garden Book (1999)
Rushing, Felder
Very good book for children interested in plants. Starts with basic information and moves forward with more complex experiments and other projects you can do to make your own garden.
Kitchen Science (2005)
Levine, Shar & Johnstone, Leslie
Experiments for children using common supplies found in most kitchens. Has the “can popcorn really grow” experiment.
Plants: Mind Boggling Experiments That You Can Turn Into Science Fair Projects (1997)
VanClease, Janice
Presents facts about plants and includes experiments, projects as well as activities related to different types of plants.
Science Fair Success with Plants
Perry, Phyllis J.
In this book you will explore the structure and development of plants, their requirements for life, and their interactions with the environment. The experiments will allow you to both read about and watch how plants survive and function. Explanations of fertilization, radiation, photosynthesis, and air pollution are included.
Grade 2-5
Science for Kids: 39 Easy Plant Biology experiments (1991)
Wood, Robert
Features 39 different age appropriate experiments focusing on plants.
Science Projects about Plants
Gardner, Robert
Understand the process of photosynthesis….learn about the life cycle of plants…discover the difference between short-day and long-day flowers. Most of the projects in this book contain excellent ideas for science fair projects. All you need are some simple materials, most of which can be found around your home or school. You will then be ready to learn about seeds, leaves, roots, stems, flowers, plants, and more.
Grade 2-5
What is a Plant? (2000)
Kalman Bobbie
Introduces plant life and discusses specific types of plants such as carnivorous and parasitic plants as well as concepts of germination and photosynthesis.
African
An African resource website that provides information regarding the continent and it’s inhabitants. Includes a web cam that links directly to the African savannah to give students an opportunity to see actual vegetation and animals in view of the web cam. Also includes an FAQ section, blogs, and forums to assist in learning.
http://www.africam.com/wildlife/index.php
Agriculture in the Classroom
A Saskatchewan based website that contains over 250 lesson plans, teacher guides, web activities, videos and fact sheets, including links to the evergreen curriculum. Provides the option of searching the website by grade or by topic. Provides quick tips and fun facts throughout.
http://www.aitc.sk.ca/tr.html
Biology of Plants
A simple layout of plant information. Not as much hands on interaction as the previous websites, but it does provide vital information regarding plant structure, pollination, and seed dispersal. Website does provide visuals, both cartoon and real life to provide an appropriate balance.
http://www.mbgnet.net/bioplants/
E Nature
Interactive website that offers multiple online activities regarding animals and plants. Website resources include flash cards, quizzes and games to learn more about various aspects of nature.
http://www.enature.com/home/
Fast Plants
A plant resource website that provides information on how to grow your own plants and includes activities about seeds and the plant lifecycle. Also includes information about various plants and how to set up your own plant kits in your classroom.
http://www.fastplants.org/
Kid’s Valley Garden
Website includes multiple links on aspects of plant care. Terminology is appropriate for higher grade levels, but activities regarding plant care including germinating seeds and planning a garden could be used in classrooms of varying grade levels.
http://www.copper-tree.ca/garden/index.html
MBGnet
A web site designed for use at an older grade level. The use of sectioning allows for students to explore plants that would be found in various areas of the world. Provides external links in each of the various plant sections to further research and provide teacher implementation ideas. http://www.mbgnet.net/
Plant Pathology
Website includes a link to a downloadable storybook to assist children in the understanding of plant pathology. Includes additional plant pathology links for teachers regarding the American Psychopathological Society.
http://www.apsnet.org/members/opae/storybook/top.asp
Real Trees 4 Kids
Provides information at varying grade levels about plant functions, various plants in various locations and visuals to aid in the comprehension of what the trees look like and how they are unique.
http://www.realtrees4kids.org/threefive/conifers.htm
Silly Billy’s World
Offers lesson plan ideas that are coupled with a range of plant books, both fiction and non-fiction. Lesson plans include objectives, procedures, extensions and materials. Provides additional literacy links.
http://www.sillybilly.com/tracy1.html
Teachers First
Resource website that provide a multitude of links for elementary, middle, and high school levels compiled for teachers by teachers. Links include many areas including everything from plants to animals to algebra. Useful for lesson planning and extensions.
http://www.sites4teachers.com/links/redirect.php?url=http://www.teachersfirst.com/lesn-sci.htm
The Life Cycle of Plants
An interactive web site designed mainly for the older grades. Useful for research on specific plants. Provides downloadable log sheets for documenting and classifying various plants. Designated areas, one for trees and shrubs and another for flowers allows the information to be broken down into easily researched areas.
http://www2.bgfl.org/bgfl2/custom/resources_ftp/client_ftp/ks2/science/plants_pt2/plants2/plant_identification.htm
The Dirt on Soil
A very interactive web site providing information on an area which supports plants: soil. Suitable for independent exploration in grades two and up. Useful for teacher directed instruction at any age level.
http://school.discoveryeducation.com/schooladventures/soil/
The Great Plant Escape
Interactive website that provides information on the lifecycle of plants. Suitable for middle grades, the website allows for online exploration and provides a teacher guide to assist educators in their classrooms.
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/gpe/
Tomatosphere
Offers information regarding tomatoes and their applications in space. Students are given information on conducting scientific experiments with tomatoes, tomato seeds and the germination of tomatoes. Provides student and teacher resources.
http://www.tomatosphere.org/index.html
Zip’s Plants
An interactive exploration of plants and plant functions including growth of a plant, parts of a plant and pollination. Includes simple plant activity options easy enough for a wide age range. Links to plant websites are included which range from hands on children’s web sites to media review websites. Web site culminates in a multiple choice quiz set up by the web page designer.
http://www.bgfl.org/bgfl/custom/resources_ftp/client_ftp/ks2/science/s_plants/index.htm
Canadian Gardner: Volume 4, Trees, Shrubs and Climbers (video)
Host David Tarrant removes all the fears and guess work that confront us when it comes to working with greenery. Suitable as a teacher resource.
Edible Wild Plants (video)
Identifies over 100 useful and edible plants, showing cooking and preparation techniques as well as covering the folk and First Nations uses for the plants in medicine. More suitable for older grade level studies.
Johnny Appleseed
Told by Garrison Keillor
Retells the story of the benevolent naturalist who roamed the Ohio Valley during the 1800s, planting apple orchards and spreading good will.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
The Magic School Bus Goes to Seed (video)
An animated educational cartoon to assist children in the comprehension of the lifecycle, as well as different varieties, of plants. Target audience would be for younger to middle grade levels, but it could be used over a wide age range.
The Magic School Bus: Gets Planted (video)
When Phoebe tries to grow a big vine for her school's production of Jack and the Beanstalk, all she ends up with is a stunted little sprout. To help out, Ms. Frizzle turns her into a real vine. But to grow tall, Phoebe needs to figure out how plants eat - fast! To unearth the amazing ways plants make their own food, the Fritz and the kids shrink down and dig deep in a quest to root out the facts!
This is Daniel Cook: Making Maple Syrup (video)
Daniel Cook learns how to tap trees, collect sap and boil the sap to create maple syrup. Daniel then gets to pour this fresh maple syrup and enjoy his sugary treat
This is Emily Yeung: Exploring the Forest (video)
Emily Yeung is learning about trees and how important the forest is to our world.
Plant Resource Kit from the Royal Saskatchewan Museum
The kit contains several different plant specimens, books, teacher’s binder and games. The kit is a bit outdated.
(All Grade Levels)
(From Amberlee, Cheri, Crystal, Fraser and Marlee)
Included: Fiction, non-fiction, poetry,
websites, videos as well as experiments and
activities to use while teaching plants
in an elementary school level.
Non Fiction
Ancient Ones; The world of the Old-Growth Douglas Fir
Bash, Barbara
In lyrical prose and vividly realized watercolour paintings, the ongoing drama of the old-growth world is captured as the life cycle is traced of the Douglas fir and a forest.
Grade 4
Apples: How they grow
McMillan, Bruce
This book reveals the miniscule stages of an apple’s growth.
Grade 2-4
A First Look At The World Of Plants. (1978).
Selsam, Millicent.
Examines the distinguishing characteristics of plants which help enable scientists to classify them. Puzzles and a matching game are included.
A Forest is Reborn
Newton, James R.
Describes how a forest renews itself through a process called plant succession after a destructive fire.
Grade 3
A Seed Grows; My First Look at a Plant’s Life Cycle
Hickman, Pamela
With flaps to open, easy-to-read text and informative illustrations, it is fun for young children to explore and understand the amazing world of nature.
Grade 1
A Tree is Growing
Dorros, Arthur
Follow the oak tree through the seasons from the unfolding of new buds in the spring to the dropping of colourful leaves in the fall. An explanation is also offered on the roles of each part of a tree. Beautiful illustrations.
Grade 3
Cactus in the Dessert. (1979).
Busch, Phyllis
Explains how cacti survive in the desert where there is very little water.
Can We Save Them?
Dobson, David
An informative text and engaging illustrations bring to life species of endangered animals and plants. From the beautiful cui-ui to the Puerto Rican parrot, the dangers each species faces and suggest ways to restore its natural environment.
Grade 4
Canadian Trees
Mastin, Colleayn O.
An informational book on Canadian trees and their uses.
Grade 3
From Seed to Plant
Gibbons, Gail
Explores the intricate relationship between seeds and the plants which they produce.
Grade 1
Growing Colors
McMillan, Bruce
Photographs of green peas, yellow corn, red potatoes, purple beans, and other fruits and vegetables illustrate the many colours of nature.
Kindergarten
How do Apples Grow?
Maestro, Betsy
This book reveals how apples grow from bud to flower to fruit. Clear diagrams show the parts of a flower and the processes of pollination and fertilization.
Grade 1-2
How a Seed Grows. (1992).
Jordan, Helene.
Uses observations of bean seeds planted in eggshells to demonstrate the growth of seeds into plants.
In The Pond. (1984).
Ermanno, Cristini & Luigi Puricelli
Illustrations present a wordless panorama of the marshy wetlands where a variety of fish, birds, animals, and plants share a habitat.
Learning about Plants: Resource Book
Moore, Jo Ellen and Joy Evans
Teacher resource pages, student worksheets, plant picture cards, “All About Apples” activity unit.
Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 1
Life Cycle of a Bean
Royston, Angela
An introduction to the life cycle of a bean from the time it is first planted until, four months later, it has grown as tall as an adult person.
Grade 2
Life Cycle of an Oak Tree
Royston, Angela
Introduces the life cycle of an oak tree, from the sprouting of an acorn through its more than 100 years of growth.
Grade 2
Looking at Plants
Suzuki, David
An informational book on plants and their purposes. Lots of hand-on experiments.
Grade 4
Plant Life: Cycles in Nature
Greenaway, Theresa
Enter the fascinating world of plants. Follow their cycle from seed to germination, growth, reproduction, and back to seed again. Try some of the activities inside to see the amazing processes for yourself.
Grade 3
Plant Wise
The Federation of Ontario Naturalists
Fascinating facts and amazing activities to make YOU plant wise.
Grade 2-5
Practical Plants
Pope, Joyce
As well as providing the living world with life-giving oxygen, plants also give us many useful products. An explanation of how people have used and exploited plants since the beginning of time. A detailed description of the many different plants that have been cultivated to provide people with the basics of life – food, warmth, shelter and clothing.
Grade 4
Seeds Grow
Walker, Colin
An introduction to different types of seeds and what they need to grow.
Grade 1
Taking Root
Fowler, Allan
This colourful, fact-filled Science book describes for very young readers the physical features of roots and why they are so important to our environment.
Kindergarten-Grade 2
Tell Me, Tree: All about Trees for Kids
Gibbons, Gail
A guide to the wide variety of trees that surround us. A description of different kinds of trees and how to identify them, as well as the many parts of a tree, inside and out, with cutaway illustrations and labels. The book also includes an explanation of photosynthesis and a special section on how to make a tree identification book of your own.
Grade 3
Tiger Lilies and Other Beastly Plants. (1984)
Ring, Elizabeth.
Describes several plants that remind us in some way of animals, including the foxglove, pussy willow, skunk cabbage, and snapdragon.
The Kids Canadian Tree Book
Hickman, Pamela
An informational book on Canadian trees. There are also some hands-on activities to explore their nature and purpose.
Grade 3
The Story of Rosy Dock
Baker, Jeannie
The plant rosy dock is not native to Australia. A newcomer who settled in the desert area of central Australia planted it in her garden. After each rare period of rain the desert blossoms, and over the years the seeds of this plant from the other side of the world have blown their way across south, central, and western Australia.
Grade 5
The 100-year-old Cactus
Holmes, Anita
In the Arizona desert grows the extraordinary saguaro cactus. This book describes the growth on saguaro from a barely visible seed to a healthy, vigorous plant. It takes nearly 100 years for a saguaro to achieve maturity, and as a fully grown cactus, it provides food, moisture, shade, and refuge for the wildlife of the desert.
Grade 4-5
The Most Beautiful Roof in the World: Exploring the Rainforest Canopy
Lasky, Kathryn
Describes the work of Meg Lowman in the rainforest canopy, an area unexplored until the last ten years and home to previously unknown species of plants and animals.
Grade 4
Tree Flowers. (1984).
Selsam, Millicent.
Text and drawings follow the growth cycle of twelve common flowering trees: Pussy willow, white oak, sugar maple, elm, apple, horse chestnut, flowering dogwood, magnolia, witch hazel, black walnut, black locust, and tulip tree.
Wildflowers of Canada
Fitzharris, Tim
Photographs and descriptions of thousands of flowering plants that enrich the Canadian landscape.
Grade 5
Fiction
A Handful of Seeds
Hughes, Monica
When Concepcion’s grandmother dies, she is forced to leave their farm for barrio. But she takes along her grandmother’s legacy: chilli, corn, and bean seeds. Concepcion discovers that, even in the city, her handful of seeds holds the key to her survival.
Grade 2-3
Carla’s Sandwich
Herman, Debbie
Carla brings weird sandwiches to school. Sure enough, her classmates have plenty to say. Buster is the meanest of all, but after discovering he has forgotten his lunch one day, he tries one of Carla’s creations and loves it! Soon everyone is creating their own unique sandwiches and discover that “unusual” can be surprisingly terrific. (This book can be used in a Science lesson regarding the importance of plants. Nearly everything in Carla’s sandwiches can be traced somehow back to plants.)
Grade 2-4
Cecil’s Garden
Keller, Holly
It was time to plant the garden. But then the trouble started. No one could agree on what to plant, and soon it was too hot to work. Sadly, Cecil leaves his family and goes off to visit the neighbours. When Cecil returns home, he knows how to solve the garden problem. And when harvest time comes, there was no disagreement at all!
Grade 1-2
Cinderlily: A Floral Fairytale. (2003).
Ellwand, David.
A plant twist on the traditional tale of Cinderella. Illustrations are created with various flowering plants.
Growing Vegetable Soup. (1987).
Ehlert, Lois.
A father and child grow vegetables and then make them into a soup.
How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? . (2007).
McNamara, Margaret.
Charlie’s teacher brings in three pumpkins to school, small , medium and large. She asks the students to guess which one contains the most seeds. After everyone has had a chance to predict they open them up and find out.
How a Shirt Grew in the Field. (1992).
Rudolph, Marguerita.
Vasya, a little Russian boy, watches and waits through the seasons for the flax to grow that will be spun and woven into material for his new shirt.
In the Children’s Garden
Schaefer, Carole Lexa
Children are welcome at an urban garden where they plant seeds, watch them grow and enjoy their harvest.
Grade 2
In the Heart of the Village
Bash, Barbara
This book captures the soul of the ancient and sacred banyan, painting a vivid picture of its importance to the people and other animals that flourish beneath and within its welcoming branches. It provides a unique glimpse of the interconnectedness of life in a rural culture.
Grade 4-5
Jack and the Beanstalk
Beck, Ian
The classic tale of a daring lad, a beanstalk that springs up overnight, a singing harp, a hen that lays golden eggs, and a giant with a taste for grilled boy on toast.
Grade 1-2
Mighty Tree. (1992).
Gackenbach, Dick.
Three seeds grow into three beautiful tress, each of which serves a different function in nature and for people.
Planting a Rainbow. (1988).
Ehlert, Lois.
A mother and child plant a rainbow of flowers in the family garden.
Red Leaf, Yellow Leaf. (1991).
Ehlert, Lois.
A child describes the growth of a maple tree from seed to sapling.
Seeds! Seeds! Seeds!. (2004)
Wallace, Nancy.
Buddy Bear learns about different seeds and their uses when he opens a package sent by his grandfather.
Stone Soup
Muth, Jon J.
Hok, Lok, and Siew, journey along a mountain road trying to understand what makes one happy. At once the monks encounter frightened villagers who lock their windows and darken their homes. The villagers have long been ravaged by harsh times, and their hearts have grown hard toward everyone they meet. But when the monks cleverly entice them to make soup from stones, the villagers discover how much they each have to give—and how much more comes back in return.
Grade 2-4
Sunflower
Ford, Miela
Watch what grows from one small seed! Planted in the ground, carefully watered, faithfully watched, the seed begins to grow. And grow. And grow.
Kindergarten to Grade 1
The Apartment House Tree
Killion, Bette
This book introduces readers to the inhabitants of one special tree.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
The Apple Trees
French, Vivian
Vivian French and her daughter, Nan, had an apple tree in their garden. It was very old. Then they planted a new young tree to keep it company. Season by season, they watched their two trees grow and change…and all the time Nan was growing and changing too.
Grade 2-3
The Big Seed
Howard, Ellen
Bess was the smallest in her class. When everyone chooses seeds to plant for a school project, Bess chooses one big seed from a packet that features yellow flowers-small like Bess. But when she takes her seedling home for the summer and plants it in the garden, a surprising thing happens-Bess’s big seed grows into a flower that’s just the right size.
Grade 1-2
The Magic School Bus: Plants Seeds, A Book About How Living Things Grow
Cole, Joanna
Ms. Frizzle’s class is growing a beautiful garden. But, Phoebe’s plot is empty. Her flowers are back at her old school! So, the class climbs aboard the Magic School Bus. And, of course, the kids don’t only go back to Phoebe’s school, but they go inside one of Phoebe’s flowers! Follow the kids’ adventure and learn how living things grow.
Grade 2
The Seasons of Arnold’s Apple Tree
Gibbons, Gail
Arnold has his very own secret place—his apple tree—and this bright and welcome book lets readers everywhere share the fragrance of its blossoms, the crunch of its fruit, and the gold of its autumn leaves.
Grade 1-2
The Tiny Seed
Carle, Eric
This book tells the fascinating story of the life cycle of a flower in terms of the adventures of a tiny seed.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
The Wind’s Garden
Roberts, Bethany
In simple verse and vibrant pictures, this book tells of the beauty of a tended garden, and of one made by nature.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
They Call Me Appleseed John
Glass, Andrew
There are many tales about Johnny Appleseed. Most tell of his courage, generosity, and potent green thumb. Many people didn’t know that the real Johnny Appleseed, John Chapman, was a tale spinner himself…
Grade 2-4
Weslandia. (1999).
Fleischman, Paul.
Wesley’s garden produces a crop of huge, strange plants which provide him with clothing, shelter, food, and a drink thus helping him create his own civilization and changing his life.
Where Once There Was a Wood. (1996).
Fleming, Denise
Examines the many forms of wildlife that can be displaced if their environment is destroyed by development and discusses how communities and schools can provide space for them to live.
Where the Forest Meets the Sea
Baker, Jeannie
This book takes us on a visit to the tropical rain forest in North Queensdale, Australia. We walk among the ancient trees and pretend it is a long time ago, when extinct and rare animals lived in the forest and aboriginal children played there. But for how much longer will the forest be there?
Grade 1
Poetry
Sky Tree: Seeing Science through Art
Locker, Thomas
A record of the changes in a tree through poetry and paintings. Questions are found at the bottom of each page to further ones thinking.
Grade 1 – 3
The Reason for a Flower
Heller, Ruth
A colourful book that teaches the many purposes of a flower through interesting word plays and illustrations.
Grade 2
Experiments and Activities
Arty Facts: Plant & Art Activities
Crabtree Publishing
Plant art activities with step-by-step directions.
Grade 1-5
At Home Science: Dig and Sow! (2000)
Lobbs, Janice
Introduces various scientific principles about botany and plants and presents simple experiments and illustrations.
Experiments with Plants
Byles, Monica
Why are plants so important? Experiment with plants and you will learn: how to sprout seeds at home, why plants are green, how one plant can help you predict the weather, why some plants eat insects, and how to grow your own rain forest. Dig into the fun and discover the world of plants!
Grade 2-5
Junior Garden Book (1999)
Rushing, Felder
Very good book for children interested in plants. Starts with basic information and moves forward with more complex experiments and other projects you can do to make your own garden.
Kitchen Science (2005)
Levine, Shar & Johnstone, Leslie
Experiments for children using common supplies found in most kitchens. Has the “can popcorn really grow” experiment.
Plants: Mind Boggling Experiments That You Can Turn Into Science Fair Projects (1997)
VanClease, Janice
Presents facts about plants and includes experiments, projects as well as activities related to different types of plants.
Science Fair Success with Plants
Perry, Phyllis J.
In this book you will explore the structure and development of plants, their requirements for life, and their interactions with the environment. The experiments will allow you to both read about and watch how plants survive and function. Explanations of fertilization, radiation, photosynthesis, and air pollution are included.
Grade 2-5
Science for Kids: 39 Easy Plant Biology experiments (1991)
Wood, Robert
Features 39 different age appropriate experiments focusing on plants.
Science Projects about Plants
Gardner, Robert
Understand the process of photosynthesis….learn about the life cycle of plants…discover the difference between short-day and long-day flowers. Most of the projects in this book contain excellent ideas for science fair projects. All you need are some simple materials, most of which can be found around your home or school. You will then be ready to learn about seeds, leaves, roots, stems, flowers, plants, and more.
Grade 2-5
What is a Plant? (2000)
Kalman Bobbie
Introduces plant life and discusses specific types of plants such as carnivorous and parasitic plants as well as concepts of germination and photosynthesis.
Websites
African
An African resource website that provides information regarding the continent and it’s inhabitants. Includes a web cam that links directly to the African savannah to give students an opportunity to see actual vegetation and animals in view of the web cam. Also includes an FAQ section, blogs, and forums to assist in learning.
http://www.africam.com/wildlife/index.php
Agriculture in the Classroom
A Saskatchewan based website that contains over 250 lesson plans, teacher guides, web activities, videos and fact sheets, including links to the evergreen curriculum. Provides the option of searching the website by grade or by topic. Provides quick tips and fun facts throughout.
http://www.aitc.sk.ca/tr.html
Biology of Plants
A simple layout of plant information. Not as much hands on interaction as the previous websites, but it does provide vital information regarding plant structure, pollination, and seed dispersal. Website does provide visuals, both cartoon and real life to provide an appropriate balance.
http://www.mbgnet.net/bioplants/
E Nature
Interactive website that offers multiple online activities regarding animals and plants. Website resources include flash cards, quizzes and games to learn more about various aspects of nature.
http://www.enature.com/home/
Fast Plants
A plant resource website that provides information on how to grow your own plants and includes activities about seeds and the plant lifecycle. Also includes information about various plants and how to set up your own plant kits in your classroom.
http://www.fastplants.org/
Kid’s Valley Garden
Website includes multiple links on aspects of plant care. Terminology is appropriate for higher grade levels, but activities regarding plant care including germinating seeds and planning a garden could be used in classrooms of varying grade levels.
http://www.copper-tree.ca/garden/index.html
MBGnet
A web site designed for use at an older grade level. The use of sectioning allows for students to explore plants that would be found in various areas of the world. Provides external links in each of the various plant sections to further research and provide teacher implementation ideas. http://www.mbgnet.net/
Plant Pathology
Website includes a link to a downloadable storybook to assist children in the understanding of plant pathology. Includes additional plant pathology links for teachers regarding the American Psychopathological Society.
http://www.apsnet.org/members/opae/storybook/top.asp
Real Trees 4 Kids
Provides information at varying grade levels about plant functions, various plants in various locations and visuals to aid in the comprehension of what the trees look like and how they are unique.
http://www.realtrees4kids.org/threefive/conifers.htm
Silly Billy’s World
Offers lesson plan ideas that are coupled with a range of plant books, both fiction and non-fiction. Lesson plans include objectives, procedures, extensions and materials. Provides additional literacy links.
http://www.sillybilly.com/tracy1.html
Teachers First
Resource website that provide a multitude of links for elementary, middle, and high school levels compiled for teachers by teachers. Links include many areas including everything from plants to animals to algebra. Useful for lesson planning and extensions.
http://www.sites4teachers.com/links/redirect.php?url=http://www.teachersfirst.com/lesn-sci.htm
The Life Cycle of Plants
An interactive web site designed mainly for the older grades. Useful for research on specific plants. Provides downloadable log sheets for documenting and classifying various plants. Designated areas, one for trees and shrubs and another for flowers allows the information to be broken down into easily researched areas.
http://www2.bgfl.org/bgfl2/custom/resources_ftp/client_ftp/ks2/science/plants_pt2/plants2/plant_identification.htm
The Dirt on Soil
A very interactive web site providing information on an area which supports plants: soil. Suitable for independent exploration in grades two and up. Useful for teacher directed instruction at any age level.
http://school.discoveryeducation.com/schooladventures/soil/
The Great Plant Escape
Interactive website that provides information on the lifecycle of plants. Suitable for middle grades, the website allows for online exploration and provides a teacher guide to assist educators in their classrooms.
http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/gpe/
Tomatosphere
Offers information regarding tomatoes and their applications in space. Students are given information on conducting scientific experiments with tomatoes, tomato seeds and the germination of tomatoes. Provides student and teacher resources.
http://www.tomatosphere.org/index.html
Zip’s Plants
An interactive exploration of plants and plant functions including growth of a plant, parts of a plant and pollination. Includes simple plant activity options easy enough for a wide age range. Links to plant websites are included which range from hands on children’s web sites to media review websites. Web site culminates in a multiple choice quiz set up by the web page designer.
http://www.bgfl.org/bgfl/custom/resources_ftp/client_ftp/ks2/science/s_plants/index.htm
Other Multimedia Resources
Canadian Gardner: Volume 4, Trees, Shrubs and Climbers (video)
Host David Tarrant removes all the fears and guess work that confront us when it comes to working with greenery. Suitable as a teacher resource.
Edible Wild Plants (video)
Identifies over 100 useful and edible plants, showing cooking and preparation techniques as well as covering the folk and First Nations uses for the plants in medicine. More suitable for older grade level studies.
Johnny Appleseed
Told by Garrison Keillor
Retells the story of the benevolent naturalist who roamed the Ohio Valley during the 1800s, planting apple orchards and spreading good will.
Kindergarten to Grade 2
The Magic School Bus Goes to Seed (video)
An animated educational cartoon to assist children in the comprehension of the lifecycle, as well as different varieties, of plants. Target audience would be for younger to middle grade levels, but it could be used over a wide age range.
The Magic School Bus: Gets Planted (video)
When Phoebe tries to grow a big vine for her school's production of Jack and the Beanstalk, all she ends up with is a stunted little sprout. To help out, Ms. Frizzle turns her into a real vine. But to grow tall, Phoebe needs to figure out how plants eat - fast! To unearth the amazing ways plants make their own food, the Fritz and the kids shrink down and dig deep in a quest to root out the facts!
This is Daniel Cook: Making Maple Syrup (video)
Daniel Cook learns how to tap trees, collect sap and boil the sap to create maple syrup. Daniel then gets to pour this fresh maple syrup and enjoy his sugary treat
This is Emily Yeung: Exploring the Forest (video)
Emily Yeung is learning about trees and how important the forest is to our world.
Plant Resource Kit from the Royal Saskatchewan Museum
The kit contains several different plant specimens, books, teacher’s binder and games. The kit is a bit outdated.
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