Science as a Story

Inquiry is a process of uncovering truths, asking questions, and gathering information to understand the world around us. Our exploration of “gathering of information” has led to a wonderful discovery—that science itself tells a story!

The children took a deep dive into the story of seeds through seed dissection. By carefully opening seeds, they observed the different parts that make up the beginning of a plant’s life:

• The Seed Coat – A protective outer layer, much like a shell, that safeguards the tiny life inside until conditions are just right for growth.
• The Cotyledon – The stored food that nourishes the seedling as it begins to sprout.
• The Embryo – The tiny, baby plant inside, complete with an epicotyl, which will grow into leaves, and a radicle, which will become the root system.

 

By working as real scientists—using tools, terminology, and close observation—students gained a firsthand view of a seed’s story before it even begins to grow. They were fascinated to find the tiny embryo tucked inside, looking like a miniature version of the plant it will become. Through this experience, they weren’t just learning facts; they were uncovering a living narrative, full of wonder and discovery.

The classroom has been vibrant and alive as students engage in scientific conversations with enthusiasm and curiosity. “Wow! Look at the radicle on this seed embryo!” one student exclaimed. Another made a real-world connection: “Last night I had edamame and ate a lot of seed cotyledon!” These moments show how inquiry learning builds authentic understanding—where students are not just memorizing terms, but truly grasping concepts and applying them to their daily lives.

We are so proud of our young scientists and inquirers as they work to uncover the many stories that science has to tell!