LessonPlan

Photosynthesis Lesson Plan with K'Nex

By: Jayme Willan

Grade Level: 3rd or 4th

Objectives:
The students will be introduced to the process of photosynthesis.
The students will make their own flower out of K'Nex based on example shown in class.
The students will use their writing abilities to write a short paragraph explaining how they would take care of their flower according to the process of photosynthesis.

Materials:

A variety of K'Nex pieces and gears, pictures of flowers made from K'Nex, previously made example in above image. Each child must have their textbook, paper and a pen or pencil.

This Lesson Plan can be viewed on
Dr. Kirkwood's Webpage

Procedure: Approx. 1-1 1/2 hr..

1. Previous to the lesson, have students read section 7-3 in their textbooks, starting on page 124 for homework.
2. At the start of the lesson, overview the main points of the sections with the students. Ask questions.
3. Make a diagram of photosynthesis on the chalkboard.
4. Ask students what steps they would take to grow a plant or a flower after learning about photosynthesis.
5. Show example of flower made with K'Nex pieces and gears.
6. Pass around pictures of different flowers and plants the students could make with the K'Nex pieces and gears.
7. Have each student select a flower or plant to make from the K'Nex pieces and gears.
8. Pass out K'Nex toys to each student. Make sure each student has enough pieces to finish their flower.
9. Walk around the room during this time to help any student that might be having some difficulties. Allot 15-20 minutes for this task.
10. When students are finished with their flower or plant, have them take out a piece of paper and a pen or pencil.
11. Write this scenario on the chalkboard:
"The flower or plant you have just built is now real. It is now your job to take care of your flower or plant and to not let it die. Write down in a short paragraph the steps you will take to take care of your flower or plant. Be sure to include why you would take care of your plant or flower this way according to the process of photosynthesis in your book."
12. Some students may finish sooner than others. Permit these students to build something out of their remaining K'Nex pieces and gears quietly at their own desk.
13. After all students are finished with their paragraphs, have all students display their flower or plant around the room.
14. Clean up any left over K'Nex pieces or gears, and put them in appropriate boxes. Have students help with clean-up.
15. Have students turn their paragraphs into you.

Side Note:
This activity allows the students to move around and make something productive. By writing the paragraph, the students will enhance their writing skills and will be able to apply the process of photosynthesis to a real life scenario.

Sources

K'Nex Web site.