McGraw-Hill Science 2005

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Macmillan/McGraw-Hill Science Grade 4
Grade 4
e-Journal

Plant Uses

Step 1. Questions

Stop for a moment and think of all of the different ways that you use plants. Write them down on a piece of paper (which, by the way, is made from plants). Does your list include things such as food, shelter, clothing, and medicine? What about musical instruments, furniture, perfumes, food bowls, jewelry, boats, or fuel? It is difficult to list all the ways that we use plants.

As you probably know, the most important use of plants is to help support life here on Earth. Plants not only make the oxygen we need, they also help clean up the air when we pollute it! In this project you will discover the wonderful world of plants, and the many ways we use them. The following questions will help you get started:
  • How have plants been used throughout history?
  • What are some common uses of plants today?
  • What role do plants have in supporting life on Earth?
  • Why is it important to save plants?
By using the following Web sites you can answer these questions, as well as some of your own. When your research is complete, use the steps that follow to write a report on your findings.

Step 2. Research

Research answers for the questions you were asked in Step 1. Visit these Web sites. Take notes about them on this page, too!

Plants
Learn about the role of plants in the formation of Earth’s atmosphere, and in the cycle of nature. Then you can explore the plants found in different biomes of the world. You can also use the plant index to learn about different kinds of plants. The description for each plant includes information on its most common uses.
Take Notes:



Nature: How People Use Wild Plants
This site will give you an idea of how people used to depend on plants for many different things. You will learn how the Native Americans and early settlers used the Mayapple for treating diseases. You will also see how we still use parts of it today to treat cancer. Discover the rich history of folk healers and the art of natural dyeing.
Take Notes:



Plants Database
This database provides a great deal of information about plants. To get information on different species of plants click on “Culturally Significant.” For each species of plant listed there is a plant guide. This guide describes the plants and its uses. If you click on the plant’s name you will find information about the plant along with its picture.
Take Notes:



Go to Step 3 or Save My Notes


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