The Copper Basin Problem: Student Section Investigation 1

Will Plants Grow in Copper Basin Soil?
(Coordinates with Teacher Lesson 3)

In this activity we will study the effect of Copper Basin soil on the growth of plants. We will compare the growth of plants in simulated Copper basin soil to plants grown in other types of soil. We will also use compost or humus and local soil.

Problem:

Will plants grow in simulated Copper Basin soil?

Materials:

• 18 pine seeds
• 18 corn seeds
• 6 small cups
• simulated Copper Basin soil
• humus or compost
• metric ruler
• plant tray
• local soil

Procedure:

1. Predict the result when the seeds are planted in each type of soil. Record the predictions.
2. Construct tables in which to record your observations.
3. Fill the cups with soil as follows:
   • 2 cups with compost or humus
   • 2 cups with local soil, and
   • 2 cups with simulated Copper Basin soil.
   Punch small holes in the bottom of the cups for drainage. Label the cups.
4. Plant 4-5 corn seeds in each type of soil and 4-5 pine seeds in each type of soil. Plant seeds about 1 cm deep. Moisten the soil. Keep it moist for the next few days, but do not overwater it.
5. Put the labeled cups on a plant tray and store it in a warm place. Wash your hands when finished.
6. Observe the cups daily for the next several days. Record any observations. Once the plants begin to grow, record this date and measure the height of the plant each day. Record your observations.
7. At the end of the experiment determine the mean height for each seed that grew in each type of soil.
8. Dig up the seeds that did not grow. Record any observations that can be made such as appearance, color, or partial germination. Find the mass of each seed that did not germinate and record.