Homework
Project
Collecting and Pressing Leaves
Due: Friday, October 25th
This year we are studying
coniferous and deciduous trees. This
season gives us a wonderful opportunity to see many colorful and unique leaves
that we may pass by without noticing. As
part of this study, we will be looking at the characteristics of these plants
and would like you to help your child find some leaves for a classroom
project. Below you will find the
criteria for this project:
1.
Collect
6-8 small leaves and/or small branches from a coniferous or deciduous tree or
bush. The dimensions of each leaf or
branch should be no larger than 2½” in length and width. Have your child use a ruler or tape measure
to measure the length and width. See
example on the back side of this sheet.
2.
Try to
collect a variety of sizes of unique looking leaves and/or branches.
3.
Press
the leaves in wax paper 3 times as follows:
o Place the leaf between 2 pieces of wax
paper and gently iron the wax paper.
o Carefully peel the wax paper away and discard
the wax paper.
o Repeat this process 2 more times using new
wax paper each time.
o Store your leaves between the last 2 pieces
of wax paper.
This
process will flatten the leaf leaving a wax coating, which will help preserve
it so it lasts longer.
4.
Carefully
place the pressed leaves between the pages of a book and have your child bring
the book and leaves back to school. By
doing this the leaves will not crumble in your child’s backpack.
5.
Collect
data on the type of plant the leaves are from including the name, whether it is
coniferous or deciduous, and any other important characteristics or interesting
facts about the plant. Below you will see pictures of past projects. Happy Leaf Hunting!
