Life Cycles of Organisms · B4 Science

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: B4.2.2.1.2 - Examine some common seeds and how they germinate

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Describe the observable features of a dry bean or maize seed, including the seed coat.
Sequence the stages of germination in order: water absorption, swelling, seed coat rupture, root sprouting, stem and seed leaf sprouting, and elongation.
Set up a simple germination experiment using beans or maize seeds with or without soil.
Record daily observations of germinating seeds, including labelled diagrams of each stage.
Explain that seeds can germinate with or without soil, provided they have water, air and warmth.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Cycles (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Life Cycles of Organisms (2.2)
Content standard: B4.2.2.1 - Demonstrate understanding of the life cycle of plants
Indicator: B4.2.2.1.2 - Examine some common seeds and how they germinate
Suggested placement: Term 2, Week 3 (Week 15 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: Science Curriculum (Basic 4-6), 2019, p. 7
Transcribed from the official NaCCA publication. Check this page against the source.

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

- Review learner's knowledge that seeds can germinate with or without soil.
- This activity will take some days.
NB: It is a repeat of the B3 activity but this time, the focus is on the process of germination.
- Learners will work with beans or maize seeds. Learners first observe the dry seed coat, then when it absorbs water to swell rapturing of seed coat, sprouting of the root, sprouting of the stem and seed leaves, the elongation of the root and stem.
- Learners follow the process and write reports.
NB: Report should include diagrams of each stage of germination.