Sphagnum moss (Lesson 4)
19 Apr 2014
Teacher: Bronwyn Mart
School: Teacher Resources
Category: Teacher Resources
Year: 2
This lesson could be longer than 45 minutes.
Materials and equipment
General classroom items |
Recording equipment Recording books |
Additional items |
Providing materials and equipment for each pair of students enable full participation. Plastic cup (Explore) Plastic bowls (Elaborate) Mark outside rims with C (Cold) OR H (Hot) Pop sticks to push moss under water (Explore and Elaborate) Plastic jugs for cold water Kettle(s) to warm water Sphagnum moss Class “slops bucket” for all used moss Class washing tray for all used equipment Old towels for mopping up spills |
Science background.
Sphagnum moss is a non-flowering plant that grows in moist habitats. It is harvested and packaged for use in hanging basket. The Internet will provide additional information.
Learning sequence.
Engage: Introduce a packet of sphagnum moss before students are given access to their own sample.
Explore: Explore dry sphagnum moss
Students explore and record the properties of dry sphagnum moss.
Introduce or revise “What is a prediction?”
What will happen if sphagnum moss is placed into water? is completed.
Explain: Sphagnum moss as a hanging pot liner is discussed.
Elaborate: Science investigation
What will happen if sphagnum moss is placed into water of different temperatures?**
A simple investigation based on changing the temperature of the water.
If a fridge is available then slightly colder than tap water could be used. Students can collect and pour cold water.
SAFETY CONSIDERATION: Warm water should be poured by an adult and students told not to move the bowl. The temperature of this water will drop fairly quickly.
Aim to have students place their sphagnum moss into both bowls of water at about the same time. This will enable a more accurate comparison.
** This question has the same variable as the science investigation for coconut fibre. This enables younger students to be more confident at using basic equipment and practice working with others to place their samples into the water at the same time.
Evaluate: Completed recording, participation during discussion of science inquiry skills (such as What is a prediction?)
Lesson 4 Sphagnum moss
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