Leaf it to Me

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In this activity, learners observe the effect of transpiration as water is moved from the ground to the atmosphere. Learners conduct the experiment by placing a large plastic bag over a living limb of a tree or large bush for at least two hours and then measuring the water vapor collected in the bag. Use this activity to introduce learners to the hydrologic cycle and plant transpiration. This resource also explains the importance of hydration during the summer. Note: learners will see better results if they conduct the experiment on a warm sunny day.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
2 to 4 hours
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • One large clear plastic bag
  • Large rock
  • Measuring tools

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Earth Processes
      • Weather and Climate
    • Earth Structure
      • Atmosphere
  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Plants
    • Ecology
      • Energy Flow and Chemical Cycles
    • Human Body
      • Health and Nutrition
  • Mathematics
    • Measurement
  • Physical Sciences
    • Heat and Thermodynamics
      • Heat and Temperature
      • Heat Transfer
    • States of Matter
      • Liquids
      • Gases
      • Changes of Phase
  • The Nature of Science
    • The Scientific Process
      • Conducting Investigations
      • Gathering Data

Informal Categories

  • Gardening
  • Nature and Environment
  • Outdoor Activity

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, National Weather Service,