In this article, the author presents and discusses activities that use a phenomena-first, guided inquiry approach to teach important concepts related to plant function, as well as the history and nature of scientific inquiry. These activities are intended for use with students in grades 3-8, as well as in elementary science methods courses. The activities are consistent with inquiry-based instruction as advocated by the National Science Education Standards, are inexpensive and address common misconceptions related to the water cycle, transpiration, photosynthesis, and cellular respiration. (Contains 1 table.)