Leaf Science

This week, we have leaves in our science center. These activities might be a little late for some of you, but in Georgia, our leaves don’t change color until late, late October or early November.

Leaf Symmetry

The wooden bowl contains unbreakable mirrors. I collected several leaves of different shapes and cut the leaves in half. I showed the children how to place the mirror on the cut edge of the leaf, and they will see what looks like a whole leaf.

Leaf Impressions

Children roll out the play dough flat like a pancake and press leaves into the play dough. When the leaves are removed, they see the imprint of the leaf with the veins. This works best when you press the back side of the leaf into the play dough. The same activity can be done using clay. Press the leaves into a slab of clay and allow it to dry. I’ve used Amaco Marblex self-hardening clay and it works well.