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1 S C I E N C E P L A N T S PLANT FIELD ENRICHMENT4YOU Published by Henrich Incorporated Copyright 2005 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying or otherwise, without first obtaining the written permission of the copyright owner. Science Plant JOURNAL Plants in Focus This Enrichment4You E-guide provides creative ideas for maintaining a plant field journal. In this e-guide you will: *The Pleasures & Basics of Observation *The Importance of Good Data Collection *Gather Data - Where to Look *A plant Observation Kit *Plant Vocabulary *Try Making a Botanical Drawing *Page Embellishments *Creating Your *The Journal Pages Plants

2 ABOUT THIS ENRICHMENT GUIDE This enrichment guide is designed to introduce you to creating a plant field guide. This Enrichment4You e-guide has several interesting topics to explore: 1. The Pleasures & Basics of Observation - Pages The Importance of Good Data Collection - Page Gather Data - Where to Look - Pages A plant Observation Kit - Page Plant Vocabulary - Pages Plant Scavenger Hunt - Pages Try Making a Botanical Drawing - Page Page Embellishments - Page Creating Your - Page The Journal Pages - Pages Plants Science Plant

3 The Pleasures of Observation The Basics Nature Journals are a combination of science, art and personal connection to the world. They can be simple to elaborate, highly scientific to a collection of one's personal joys of seeing nature in detail. The First Step The first step in any nature journal is desire and time. Whether your nature journal is just for fun or for scientific purposes, there are some basic things to remember. There are so many wondrous things to observe. In today's society, we have not allowed ourselves the opportunity to stop and just observe the wonders around us. Observing plants has a long tradition in history. From the observations of the ancient Greeks who observed how certain plants offered medicinal benefits, to the botanical artists who capture the stunning beauty of plant species, there are untold opportunities to write, draw, photograph and capture the essence of plants. Plants 1 Imagination is the key - take time to notice the smallest details. It is here that the wonders of life begin. STOP, LOOK, & LISTEN TO THIS EARTH!

4 The Basics THINGS TO REMEMBER 1. Be safe. Avoid poisonous or prickly plants if you don t have the correct clothing or collecting materials. 2. Never collect endangered species. Collection should include native or naturalized species. Never collect a plant if only a few exist in the area. Rather, collect information through writing, illustrations or photographs. 3. Only observe where you have permission. HERBAL LEGENDS: Many plants, especially herbs have folklore traditions associated with them. For example, Angelica is believed to have received its name from the archangel who recommended its use during times of plague. It is also called, The Root of the Holy Ghost. Angelica features large green leaves with clusters of tiny light green flowers. The stems are often "sugared" and used to decorate confections. Angelica is a biennial. HERBAL LEGENDS: Many plants have a "language" of their own. Plants that symbolize a particular theme. For example, Nasturtium symbolizes splendor, patriotism and optimism. The Basics 4. Only collect plants that are safe. 5. Use gloves, appropriate clothing and collecting 6. If you are allergic to certain types of insects or plants be especially careful. 7. Observe and collect plants in a specific location. Plants 2

5 THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD DATA COLLECTION Historically, scientific journals provided much needed information about the world. Before digital cameras scientists relied on detailed drawings and notes. Lewis and Clark kept detailed journals of everything they encountered on their westward explorations. The journals kept by British explorers of Africa were the beginnings of museum collections. A good scientific journal will have the following: 1. Notes on the environmental conditions under which the plants were observed. 2. Detailed records of geographical location. During Victorian times the carnation was given to someone as a symbol of good luck. 3. The location where the plant was observed. 4. The time of day and duration of observation. 5. The weather conditions. 6. Any insects consuming the plant material 7. Any pollination that was occurring and by what type of insect. 8. Specific and detailed notes, photographs, specimen labels, maps showing location and even sound recordings when appropriate. Plants 3 DID YOU KNOW??? The Chinese have cultivated the rose for over 5000 years.

6 GATHERING DATA WHERE TO LOOK THINGS TO REMEMBER In Japan, the chrysanthemum has held a position of esteem for centuries. It is considered a symbol of happiness and long life. Observing vegetation is easy. They are everywhere. Begin by thinking of locations near where you live, go to school or work that you might be able to discover some interesting plants. Try this exercise to get you going: 1. Name three different types of vegetation you want to observe. 2. Draw, photograph or find a picture of each of the specified vegetation and attach to the location provided on the blank journal pages. 3. Prior to observing, gather all supplies together - See our suggested list on page Make a list of "plant" words. Use these words to help you detail specific information about the plant material you are observing. See our list on pages 7-8 and add some of your own. 5. Think about the type of journal details you want to include. For example, are you recording scientific data or is your observation going to be more creative? Plants 4 Many flowers and plants can be dried in a medium called silica gel. Flowers such as peonies are excellent choices to consider when using this material.