Science · Life Science
Parts of a Plant
Reading comprehension passage and printable worksheet about the parts of a plant — roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and seeds — and what each part does — for grades 3–5.
Subject
Science
Grade Level
Grades 3–8
Resource Type
Lesson Plan
Format
Lesson + PDF
Reading Passage
Parts of a Plant
Plants are living organisms that make their own food using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide. Most plants have the same basic parts: roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and seeds. Each part has a specific job that helps the plant survive, grow, and reproduce. Understanding how each part works helps us understand how plants live.
Roots are usually found underground. They anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients that the plant needs to grow. Some roots, like carrots and radishes, store food for the plant. Roots also hold soil in place and help prevent erosion. The tiny root hairs on the surface of roots increase the area that can absorb water and minerals from the surrounding soil.
The stem connects the roots to the leaves and other parts of the plant. It supports the plant and holds it upright toward sunlight. Inside the stem are tiny tubes called xylem and phloem. Xylem carries water and minerals up from the roots to the leaves. Phloem carries food made in the leaves down to the rest of the plant. In trees, the woody stem is called a trunk.
Leaves are the main place where plants make food through photosynthesis. Leaves are usually flat and broad to capture as much sunlight as possible. They contain a green pigment called chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy. Using light, water, and carbon dioxide, leaves produce glucose (sugar) for the plant to use as food. Tiny pores called stomata on the underside of leaves allow gases and water vapor to move in and out.
Flowers are the reproductive parts of many plants. They produce pollen and eggs that combine to form seeds. Brightly colored petals and sweet nectar attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. After pollination, seeds develop inside the flower. Seeds contain a tiny plant embryo and stored food that will help it sprout. When a seed lands in the right conditions, it germinates and grows into a new plant.
Printable Worksheet
Printable PDF · 4 pages
Parts of a Plant Reading Comprehension Worksheet
Printable worksheet includes the reading passage and comprehension questions about roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and seeds and the function of each plant part. Includes answer key.
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