In Search of Essential Nutrients

Overview

Students explore the meaning of essential nutrients, using periodic tables to compare the elements that are essential to people and plants. Students make predictions as to where in the environment plants obtain each of their essential elements.

Objectives

Students will:

1. Define an essential element;
2. Compare and contrast the essential nutrient requirements of plants and humans.
3. Identify the sources for each essential nutrient needed by plants.

Duration

Three, 45-minute class periods