Grade Six Science
Hello Boys and Girls,
Have you been enjoying your weekend? How are your studies coming along? Today begins a brand new week. Make full use of all the opportunities you have to learn. Last week we examined leaves. Do you remember all that we learnt? Let’s see how much you remember.
1. Draw and label a leaf.
2. Name different types of leaves according to their - shapes, margins, veins and arrangements on their stems
3. Define photosynthesis. Explain it to your little brother or sister. 4. List examples of leaves in the following categories:
Let’s continue looking at the functions of leaves.
Leaves are the food factories of the plant. The leaves are the of the plant. The last time we saw that in the leaves, plants combine chlorophyll (the green colouring) air, sunlight and water to make food. This food is called
If you use a microscope or hand lens you will be able to see them clearly. The plant takes in air through these holes or stomata. It only uses part of the air. This gas is called carbon dioxide. The plant gives off oxygen and water through these holes in the leaves (stomata).
Leaves use energy from the sunlight to manufacture the plant’s food, starch. Can a plant make food without light? Let’s do the following experiment to find out.
You will need ● a green leaf ● hot water ● iodine ● a paper clip ● a piece of dark paper or foil
Cover a part of the leaf with the foil. This is so that light cannot reach it. After a few days you will see that the part which received sunlight produced starch. How do you know this? You can test for starch by first plunging the leaf into hot water, then placing iodine on it. The part of the leaf which contains starch will turn to a blue – black colour.
Leaves cannot make food without light
Did you know that plants store food in leaves and leaf stalks? It you cut an onion lengthwise, you will see some thick layers.
These are leaves although they are not green. The onion plant stores food in these tightly packed leaves. This forms a bulb. The plant uses this food stored in these leaves when it grows.
Do you like to eat calaloo or cabbage? We are using the leaves when we eat them.
The leaves of many plants can be eaten. Can you name some edible plant leaves? Which ones do you enjoy?
Until next week, when we will look at flowers, goodbye Boys and Girls! Remember to wear your masks when in public and to wash your hands frequently.