Plant Growth Experiment Variables

Rachel, a curriculum developer, demonstrates how to set up a plant growth experiment at home using various containers, soil, seeds, water, and fertilizer. She compares the effects of different amounts of water, sunlight, and fertilizer on plant growth. Observations show that plants need water and sunlight to grow effectively, while fertilizer is not essential. Rachel also introduces a Gizmo tool to simulate similar experiments, allowing users to manipulate variables like water, light, and fertilizer to observe plant growth outcomes.

What type of containers can be used for the plant experiment?

• Only glass containers

• Only plastic containers

• Glass or used k-cup containers

• Only metal containers

What is the purpose of taping a hole in the bottom of the container?

• To allow excess water to drain

• To prevent soil from falling out

• To keep the container stable

• To make it easier to move

Which variable was NOT tested in the experiment setup?

• Sunlight exposure

• Amount of water

• Use of fertilizer

• Type of soil

What was observed in the container with no water after one week?

• Plants grew normally

• Plants grew larger than others

• Plants grew but were smaller

• Plants did not grow

What conclusion was drawn about the necessity of fertilizer?

• Plants can grow without fertilizer

• Plants cannot grow without fertilizer

• Fertilizer is essential for plant growth

• Fertilizer makes no difference

What was the effect of no sunlight on the plants?

• Plants grew larger than others

• Plants did not sprout at all

• Plants sprouted but did not develop properly

• Plants grew normally

What can be varied in the Growing Plants Gizmo?

• Only the light exposure

• Only the amount of water

• Only the type of seeds

• Amount of water, type of seeds, and light

What happens to plants in the Gizmo when given too much water?

• They do not sprout at all

• They grow the same as with less water

• They grow better

• They do not grow well

What should be ensured when setting up an experiment in the Gizmo?

• Vary multiple variables at once

• Vary only one variable per room

• Use only one type of seed

• Use maximum light exposure

What is the benefit of using the Gizmo for experiments?

• It requires no setup

• It allows testing multiple variables simultaneously

• It is faster than real experiments

• It provides a controlled environment for testing