Introduction to Plant Science

Summer 2023

Write a minimum of 5 sentences in response to each of the following prompts:

1. Describe the process of pollination, from fertilization to fruit formation. Include a minimum of 8 terms related to flower structure in your description. Underline each term.

2. Draw three rudimentary diagrams of an epigeal angiosperm seed germinating in three stages. Make sure to label a minimum of 6 seed/plant parts.

3. A young tree was girdled with a wire. Outline the risks that the tree is facing, making sure to include terminology related to plant growth and the vascular system of plants. Underline each term.

4. Research and outline one example of coevolution and/or mutualism between a plant and animal. Cite your sources!

5. Outline the process of photosynthesis, including inputs and outputs. Make sure to include terminology related to plant morphology and cellular structure. Underline each term.

6. Describe alternation of generations in plants. What is a unique marker of alternation of generations in plants and how does it differ from sexual reproduction in animals?   

7. Outline the defining characteristics of the 4 different types of plant tissues, making sure to include information relating to the location of each type of tissue and the role that it plays.

8. Outline the similarities and differences of corms, bulbs, rhizomes, and tubers.

9. Choose a plant and research its adaptations for survival. Cite your sources!

10. Outline the nutrient cycle, making sure to include details related to soil, macro and micro nutrients, and decomposition.

11. Choose 2 plant hormones or 2 plant pigments (or one of each). Describe the role that they play in regards to plant growth and life cycles.

12. Choose a fruit with seeds. Identify the type of fruit it is, then draw the fruit, making sure to label a minimum of 6 different fruit parts.

Write 2-4 sentences in response to the following prompts:

1. What is the main difference between a gymnosperm and an angiosperm? Which came first?

2. What are some ways that seed germination is triggered? Include environmental conditions as well as human interventions.  

3. What is the purpose of an endosperm? How is it formed?

4. What are some differences between dicots and monocots?

5. Why do plants have tannins, thorns, prickles, etc.?