Leaves

Fifth Grade Science Project

In Science we are beginning the school year with the plant unit.  We will be studying the four main parts of the plant and especially how it applies to our largest plant, the tree.  We will talk about how the different characteristics of trees help us to identify them.  The easiest and most common is through the leaf and fruit of the tree. 

As part of our study of trees, a leaf project is required.  The due date is October 11.   The requirements are as follows:

  • 3-ring binder

  • Decorated cover

  • Title page

  • Table of Contents

  • Twenty Five deciduous leaves (non-evergreen) - one per page with the pages numbered.  These should be alphabetized by scientific name, then number the pages.

Also on each page, the leaf will have listed in the upper right hand corner the common name of the tree and it's scientific name

  • Decorated Cover - A 3 ring binder with the clear cover on the front it would protect any art work they do for the cover.  The artwork may be computer generated, hand drawn, or a cover using natural elements.  Use your imagination and creativity. 

  • Title Page - should include a title, students name and whether they are in 5-9 or 5-10.

  • Table of Contents - This page will list the leaves as they appear in the book.  The leaves should be alphabetized by scientific name.

  • Numbering of pages - All pages should be numbered and agree with the table of contents.

  • Leaf Page - Each page should have only one leaf on it.  The scientific name can be found in any tree book.  Or use the web sites provided below.   Each leaf must be completely covered with either clear contact paper or clear adhesive tape or any other product that will completely cover and protect the leaf.  If it is not completely covered the leaves will crumble and become unrecognizable.  Up to five extra leaves will be accepted for extra-credit.

  • For additional requirements, see the assignment packet that was sent home.

Internet Resources

Urbana Park District Tree Identification - Answer the questions and it will help you identify your leaf. What Tree Is It? - Another step by step guide to identifying your leaf.  Answer the questions and see what leaf you have.
Iowa State University- Another interactive guide to identifying leaves. A Guide to Tree Knowledge - What features does your leaf have?  See what leaves have those traits.
Autumn Leaf Scrapbook-good information on how to identify leaves. Yahooligans Leaf Pages - a good resource for students.  
Leaf Identification Project - A good list of sites for your research. Tree and Plant ID - a great list of sites.
 4 H Tree Identification - a good list of leaves. Identifying Leaves of Indiana - A Web Quest with links to great sites.
Preserving Leaves & Identifying Them - A short list of the best ways to do this.  Read before you collect. Virginia Tech