6th Grade Wildflower Collection
Each collection must contain 20 specimens; Extra specimens will earn extra credit.
All species must be identified with the following information:
If you can’t find the Latin name for each specimen don’t sweat it- we will work on those in class this September. These collections are due September 20. This gives you plenty of time to work on them- however keep in mind that as fall and cold weather approaches many of the leaves will begin to disappear, so it is important that you begin as soon as possible.
You will need a scrapbook style notebook for your wildflower collection. Not a fancy one, just a cheap scrapbook with plain paper pages. A 3-ring binder will work, with heavy paper. Decorate the front cover – be sure to include your name, and “6th Grade Science”
You will also need :
- A large book- like a phonebook or catalog to press the specimens
- Clean white typing paper
- Clear Packing tape to attach dried sample to scrapbook page.
- digital camera- try to take a photo of each flower "in the wild" before you pick it, to help with identification later.
Procedure: Photograph flower before picking. When picking, try to get stalk with some leaves, or entire cluster of flowers to help with identification. Note the date and location for each specimen. Specimens should be Montana Wildflowers- not roses and tulips from your yard.
Fold a clean white piece of typing paper in half, (or use two sheets if your specimen is large) and flatten the flower and stem carefully inside. Try to spread out the petals and leaves of the flower, so they look nice.
Write the date of collection, and location, and common name if you know it on the piece of paper. Insert in a book (it is a good idea to use a phonebook or catalog, NOT a priceless book- there could be some staining or damage to the pages from having a flower pressed inside) Then place other books on top of the pressing book, to add weight.
It is important to press each specimen until they are dry- this will probably take several days. It is OK to add more specimens to pressing book, just don't disturb the ones that are in there already. When completely dry, carefully mount in your scrapbook, cover with the clear packing tape. You just need to cover the specimen, not the whole page.Use scissors to trim off excess greenery, but leave major leaves to help with identification.
Neatly add the date collected, location, common name and scientific name under each specimen. If you don’t know the scientific name, leave it blank and we will be working on that in class.
Please don’t wait until school starts to work on this, or you will have a hard time finding 20 specimens. For more information check the 6th grade page on Mrs. M’s Science page on the St. Matt’s page. (www.stmattsaints.org- click on Students, then on Mrs M’s Science Page). Or call me at 261-0153 or email tech@stmattsaints.org