Build Vocabulary

Collect verbs that describe planting and growing tulips, or words specifically related to the Test garden project.

1. Predict What Tulips Need
Before revealing the protocol for planting a tulip test garden, use the webbing graphic to review what plants need: sunlight, water, soil, space, protection. Pose questions about what tulips may need: Full sun? Full shade? Part sun/part shade? Type of soil? How much water from rain, snow, other? How far apart would you plant bulbs? How can the bulbs be protected from predators or extreme weather conditions? Assess students' background knowledge by encouraging them to share their thoughts and predictions.

Dear Families,

Our class is planting a tulip test garden as part of the international science project called Journey North. We will connect with hundreds of other schools in the Northern Hemisphere. We are beginning this fall by planting Red Emperor tulip bulbs. Next spring, we will share our local observations and track spring's progress.

Springtime events occur at different times in different places. Track Test Gardens to discover how different climate conditions affect plant growth.

Fluffing, Shivering, and Entering Torpor

Feathers as Insulators

When it's cold, a hummer often looks fat because it's fluffing its feathers for extra insulation. It's body temperature is about 105°F (40.5°C). By fluffing its feathers, the hummingbird is able to trap the warm air and protect its body from the surrounding cold air.