Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

To successfully use field guides and plant keys, students need to understand plant anatomy. Illustrations are helpful when teaching aspects of plant anatomy, such as patterns of inflorescence, leaf veining, and plant branching.

Students will use diagrams to learn about plant anatomy and vocabulary. Students will apply their knowledge to play the game Plant Pictionary. Students will be introduced to and will practice using weed field guides and keys that use several different classification systems. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

Most high school students have already been introduced to the history and principles of the binomial classification system. However, students often fail to grasp the benefits of using this system to identify organisms in general, especially weeds. Students will use the binomial classification system to learn about a particular noxious weed. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.

Click here to view the lesson plan (pdf).

Grade: 9 to 12

Introduction

Students will build an inexpensive plant press and use the press to preserve weed samples. Before teaching this lesson, read the entire lesson and make sure all materials are available.