ERIC Number: EJ767759
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007
Pages: 7
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0036-8121
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Digital Daisy: An Inquiry-Based Approach to Investigating Floral Morphology and Dissection
McIntosh, Amy V.; Richter, Stephen C.
Science Activities: Classroom Projects and Curriculum Ideas, v43 n4 p15-21 Win 2007
Many topics in the secondary science classroom can be difficult to introduce to students in a manner that fully engages them, especially when presented using traditional teaching methods. However, with a little innovation and an emphasis on inquiry, even dry subjects can be presented in an appealing way. The authors developed an inquiry-based exercise that teaches students about flower anatomy and dissection. During this exercise, students investigate the morphology of simple and composite flowers using digital microscopes. Dissection of a simple flower results in a count of floral parts that is used to construct a floral formula. Students use appearance of structures to suggest function of sepals, petals, anthers, pistils, and components. Investigation of composite and bilabiate flowers introduces concepts of inflorescence and symmetry and asymmetry. Following self-guided inquiry by the students, the teacher uses a digital microscope, computer, and LCD projector to lead discussion of what was observed and to help assimilate important concepts. (Contains 1 figure, 4 resources, and 2 online resources.)
Descriptors: Science Instruction, Laboratory Procedures, Floriculture, Anatomy, Teaching Methods, Secondary School Science, Inquiry, Scientific Concepts, Botany
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Publication Type: Guides - Classroom - Teacher; Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Secondary Education
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A