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  • Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)

    Step 1

    Begin by discussing with the child what seeds need to grow into plants. Use simple language to explain that seeds need water, light and soil to sprout and grow.

    Step 2

    Show the child different types of seeds (e.g. bean seeds, radish seeds) and discuss their shapes and sizes. Encourage the child to feel the seeds and observe their features.

    Step 3

    Introduce the experiment and get the child excited about the activity. Say, ‘Today, we’re going to investigate what helps seeds start growing. We’ll use these jars to test how light and water affect seed germination.’

  • Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)

    Step 1

    Label each jar or clear container with the types of seeds and conditions you will test (e.g. one jar with water and light, one with water only, one with light only, and one with neither).

    Step 2

    Place a few seeds into each jar according to the labelled conditions. For example:

    • Water and light: Add water to the jar and place seeds on top of moistened tissue paper or in soil.
    • Water only: Place seeds on moistened tissue paper or in soil without exposing them to light.
    • Light only: Place seeds on tissue paper or in soil and expose them to a light source.
    • Control (neither water nor light): Place seeds on tissue paper or in soil without adding water or exposing them to light.
    Step 3

    Ensure they are easily accessible for observation over the next few days. Encourage the child to observe and record changes daily. They can draw or take photos of each jar and note any differences in seed growth.

    Step 4

    After a day or two, discuss with the child what they observe. Guide them to notice any differences in seed growth between the jars with different conditions. Explain how seeds germinate when they have water, light and soil. Discuss why each of these factors is important for seed growth.

    Step 5

    Once seeds have started to germinate (typically within 3-7 days depending on the seeds), discuss with the child their observations and what they learned about seed germination. If seeds have sprouted, consider planting the seedlings into pots or the garden. Guide the child in caring for the seedlings by watering them regularly and placing them in a sunny spot.

Showcase

– Sharing the outcomes (15+ mins)
Select any option from the table or try our recommendation.

  • Make

    Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.

    Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved sharing their insights and reflections. This may include filming each step of the flower-pressing process or the child explaining the parts of the flower that they have labelled on their flower-press diagram.

    Compile photos, drawings and notes from the activity into a scrapbook, highlighting what has been learned and enjoyed.

    Use materials from the activity to build a model or prototype of something related to the topic, fostering hands-on learning and creativity.

  • Discuss

    Encourage the child to share their seed germination experiment with family members or friends, explaining the importance of water, light and soil for plant growth.

    Choose a thought-provoking question or topic related to the activity and hold a family debate or discussion to explore different perspectives.

    Sit down together to discuss the activity, allowing each family member to share their thoughts, discoveries and questions.

    Have each family member prepare a short presentation about what they have learned, using visuals like drawings or props to illustrate key points.

  • Write

    If the activity involved a visit to a museum or community centre, write thank-you notes to any instructors or organisers, reflecting on what has been learned.

    Collaborate on writing a fictional story or play inspired by the themes or concepts explored during the activity.

    Reflect on what has been learned during the activity and write letters to be opened at a later date, sharing thoughts, goals and aspirations.

    If the activity involved outdoor exploration, begin a nature journal to document future outdoor adventures and observations.

  • Plan

    Brainstorm ideas for a follow-up activity or experiment inspired by what has been learned during the initial activity.

    Take time to reflect on how the activity could inspire new goals, discussing ways to incorporate similar experiences into your routine in the future.

    If the activity involved a specific topic or field of study, reach out to experts or professionals for interviews or Q&A sessions to deepen understanding.

    If you enjoyed the activity, why not share it with other families within your community? Plan a workshop or invite a friend over to re-create the experience and share your new knowledge.

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