Level 1
Choose petal/stem in 2/3 turns.
2026–27 • Plants & seasons
Flower Dissection
Observe the parts of an identified flower and separate a few parts with safe tools or a paper model. A visible petal and stem are enough for an entry-level outcome.
Classroom lesson: Flower DissectionToday I can…
find a flower part
Words to know
Words for this lesson
FLOWERPETALSTEMLEAFCENTER
Follow along
What we will do
- 1
Choose
Choose a flower photo or an adult-screened flower.
- 2
Look
Find the stem and petals.
- 3
Take apart
Remove a loose part with help, or direct an adult.
- 4
Match
Match a part to its picture.
- 5
Finish
Share a part and wash hands.
Speech, sign, point, eye gaze, or AAC
Tell us what you need
LOOKTOOLPETALSTEMHELPSTOP
Teacher & para guideMaterials, learning objectives, access, and safety
Materials
- Known school-approved flower or large paper model; contrasting tray; blunt tweezers; magnifier; part diagram/labels; AAC. No student blades.
Safety first
No unknown/toxic/irritant plants or tasting. Screen pollen/contact allergy; paper-only if uncertain. Adults control small parts; wash hands.
Follow each student's IEP, health, feeding, allergy, behavior, and mobility plans.
Individual learning objectives
Choose Level 1, 2 or 3 individually in either House group. A House is not an ability level. Watching, directing and communicating a boundary are valid participation.
Level 2
Match 3/4 visible flower parts.
Level 3
Identify three parts and one function.
Skill focus: Fine-motor control, visual discrimination, plant anatomy, scientific observation
30-minute teaching sequence
Introduce · 5 min
Flower Dissection Word: Petal. Show an identified flower or paper model. Ask, "Look, use a tool, or watch?" Find one petal; nothing goes into mouths. Flowers can have different-looking parts.
I do · 10 min
Gently lift one petal and place it by PETAL. Identify stem and visible center parts. Use an accurate diagram when details are unclear. Pollen forms on anthers; pollen is not a seed.
We do · 10 min
Students separate or direct two parts using a model or screened flower. Match labels and inspect with a magnifier. Level 3 names visible parts/functions; adults do any cutting.
Exit choice · 5 min
L1: "Show petal or stem." L2: "Which label matches this part?" L3: "What does this part do?"
Science note: Many flowers have petals, sepals, stamens and a pistil; flowers differ, so not every part will be obvious. Pollen forms on anthers. Pollen is not the same as a seed.
Curriculum connection: NGSS LS1.A connection.
Prepare for this learner
One teacher demonstration with large labels if short-staffed. Follow allergy/pica/vision plans; no required touch or smell. Accept AAC, gaze or direction of staff. Levels independent of House.
Lower-staffing option: One teacher dissection under a document camera; students select part cards from seats. Use paper models when staffing cannot support loose parts.
Record the response, access method, opportunities and support used. Record observed, declined or not assessed separately; a communicated refusal is not a failure of participation.
Word lesson plan
Editable classroom source plan. Source files may retain earlier titles. Use the individual level choices and safety guidance above when preparing the session.
Access supports
Communication Model five core words; accept speech, AAC, eye gaze, gestures, object choices, signs, and partner-assisted scanning.
Sensory Present one material at a time. Offer tools, gloves, observe-only, a scent-free choice, and a quiet break.
Motor Stabilize containers, pre-loosen parts, use adapted grips, and offer seated, standing, partner, or directing roles.
Learning Show the finished result, model first, use short visual steps, repeat, and record the least support needed.