With many schools closed, families are focused on making sure children are getting the most out of at-home and distance learning. Along with academics, it’s also important to focus on staying healthy and active. One way to do that is to incorporate healthy eating habits with a fun lesson about the science of plants. Kids tend to take an interest in eating fruits and veggies when they learn more about the different plant parts and understand their purpose. This at-home activity is one parents can do with their children. It gives students a chance to learn more about what makes fruit and vegetables stand out, the function of the edible parts, and how they help our bodies.
Plant Anatomy and Edible Plant Parts: Healthy Eating Activity
(Grades 5-6)
Activity Instructions:
- In the kitchen or dining room, set out a variety of produce examples like apples, strawberries, carrots, celery, broccoli, zucchini, and peas. If you don’t have produce readily available, show children images of fruits and vegetables. Identify each plant part with the children (roots, leaves, flowers, stems, fruits, seeds) and show what parts we eat.
- Explain that each part is designed to support an important function for the plant to live.
roots – underground support for the plant, collects water and food
leaves – make food for the plant from sunlight (photosynthesis)
stems – above ground support and provides vessels to move water and nutrients through the plant
flowers – attract pollinators and matures into fruit
fruits – protect and hold the seeds
seeds – contain all the information needed for plant life -
Write the different plant parts across the top of a piece of paper. Ask kids to think of other fruits and vegetables and tell you which part or parts of each is eaten. Then ask them to list the fruit or veggie under the appropriate plant part/parts on the paper.
- Cut-up various produce samples and let kids taste the different plant parts.
This is a HEAR-SEE-DO activity:
- Help kids hear the message about the interesting and tasty parts of edible plants.
- Let them see examples of edible plant parts.
- Let them do by identifying additional plant part examples and tasting samples.
More Health-Related Activities & Inspiration
Getting students interested and excited about making healthy diet and activity choices should be a priority. As young learners grow, their healthy habits can benefit their physical health and academic performance. Check out our other health-related activities to incorporate in school or at home.
