Plant Structure & Growth Investigation Data Sheet 4. Check every day to see that the seeds are still moist, and record your observations when the roots begin to appear. Geotropism In Plants A tropism is a plant’s response to an outside influence that directs plant growth or movement. Geotropism is a plant’s response to gravity. Objective Perform an experiment to see if a plant’s roots will always grow downward. 5. After the seeds germinate and the roots begin to grow, flip the bag upside down and place it back in the window. Continue observing the growth of the roots and record your observations, making diagrams if necessary. • Was your hypothesis (scientific guess) about the root growth correct? Explain. Materials — a plastic food bag with some wet paper towels inside — a stapler — bean seeds — a paperclip Safety Notice: All applicable laboratory safety rules must be followed. Students should not perform any experimental activity without the teacher’s supervision and express permission. Students must follow safety guidelines and wear appropriate protective gear. Conclusions • What do you think would happen if you tried to germinate bean seeds in the space shuttle when it was orbiting the Earth and affected by microgravity? Procedure 1. Place four bean seeds in the food bag and position each a little differently, about three fingers-width apart. That will mean that their position in the bag doesn’t have anything to do with growing downwards. 2. Staple the bag shut. 3. Make sure the bag is tightly closed to seal in the moisture, and hang it in a sunny window with a paperclip. Data Table — Plant Observations Bean 1 Bean 2 Bean 3 Bean 4 Day 1 Day 4 Day 7 Day 10 www.LibraryVideo.com © 2005 Library Video Company. All rights reserved.