Parent Signature you have done this. ______
Leaf Project
We will be classifying, NOT identifying!!
Do not worry about names.
Part I Collect and Dry:
Collect 15 different kinds of broad leaves. This means from 15 different types of plants, NOT 15 leaves from one plant. The leaf may not be bigger than 8” X 10”. A broad leaf is flat (thin) and wide. Usually found on trees, bushes or flowering plants. A broadleaf is NOT a pine needle, not a cactus, not from a palm tree, not a succulent, nor is a blade of grass. No grasses!
You need to collect a whole leaf, which includes the petiole. This is the little stem connected to the tree branch. On a rose bush the leaf usually has 3, 5, or 7 leaflets. The leaves need to be complete, not partially eaten or torn. Leaves from the ground tend to mildew and rot. So direct from a tree is best.
Once leaves are collected, prepare for drying. Lay leaves separately onto half a newspaper. Leaves should not overlap. Usually you can get all 15 onto one page. Cover with more newspaper and place something heavy on top. Make a large, easy to read label that says, “IMPORTANT school project! DO NOT THROW AWAY!!” Then tape on the label. For Safety, keep these up high away from children and pets. Store in a dry place and leave them alone for 2-3 weeks. KEEP them home. I will let you know when to bring them into school.
Part II Making the leaf Booklet: This will be done in class for a Test grade. In about 3-6 weeks you will get detailed instructions as to what to do. Do not start on your own.
You will choose 10 of the 15 leaves that show the most variety.
Glue/tape the leaves onto page. Then fill in the seven descriptions of the leaf.
It must be clear as to which description goes with which leaf. The booklet will include a labeled diagram of the external structure of a leaf and the internal organization of a leaf. There needs to be a page on the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.