EXTERNAL PARTS OF PLANT FOR GROWTH Root system – form and function

Do now Collect a pot plant between a group of 3 Collect some parts tags from the front Cut out the tags and attach some string then tie to the proper place on the plant

Parts for growth There are three main parts of the plant that help with growth 1. Roots 2. Stem 3. Leaves We are going to start by looking at the root system

Roots The roots of a plant have 3 main functions 1. To hold the plant firmly in the soil 2. To take in water and nutrients to make the plant grow 3. To sometimes store food that has been made in the leaves – not all plants roots do this

Root system

Growing bean experiment Aim: To germinate a bean seed so that the developing roots can be seen Equipment: glass jar, sugar paper, water, Bean, Method: Cut a length of paper that it able to fit inside the beaker and pushes against the sides Wet the paper and roll so it fits inside the glass jar. Push the bean down the side and pour some water down the middle of the paper roll. Place on the windowsill in the sun

Roots There must be enough roots in the root system so that enough water and nutrients can be brought to the leaves. If there are too many roots or too many leaves, the plant will not reach it’s optimal growth.

Water and nutrients Water and the nutrients that are dissolved in the water enter the roots through the root hairs that grow out from the lateral roots. This is done by a process called osmosis.

Roots with special functions Roots can be used for more than just water and nutrient uptake. Food storage- carrots, parsnips and beetroot Reproduction- raspberries and strawberries Climbing - ivy

Questions 1. Give three reasons a plant has roots. 2. Use a diagram to explain how water and nutrients get from the soil to the stem of the plant. 3. Describe three features of a perfect carrot.