Week 10 - Roles of Plants, Uses of Plants and Natural and Managed Resources

Exercise 2.2

Lesson 2.2: We Use Plants in Many Ways

ACTIVITY A

Required Readings

Science in Action 7
pages 130 - 132
or
Science Focus 7
pages 132 to 137

Plants are involved in the Earth's ecosystem in a variety of ways. They manage and supply nutrients to nature's various cycles. The most direct example being the carbon/oxygen cycle. In this cycle the plants supply the carbon element through the production of carbon dioxide. Besides involvement in cycles, plants provide several useful products to human kind. One has only to sit down to a meal to see the great variety that plants bring to the table. In one meal a person could have a potato, lettuce, radishes and tomatoes. These choices would provide the fiber, protein and vitamins that we would need for a balanced meal. Also when we are sick numerous medications are derived from plants. For example Aspirin was originally obtained from the willow tree.

Exercise 2.2 - Growing Plants in Space

Role Play: International Space Station Activity

The role-play will involve the student becoming a plant biologist who is responsible for the growth and use of plants on the space station.

Job: Plant biologist

Problem: To supply the station with viable plants to use within the space station environment. The problem is very much like living on an island where you would be able to pick and choose plants that you would like.

Exercise 2.2 - Growing Plants in Space