Parts of a Plant

Roots anchor plants and take in water. Stems support leaves and carry water. Leaves use light to make food. Flowers on many plants help make seeds.

Look at a familiar plant with a grown-up. Can you find its stem and leaves? Roots may be hidden below the soil. Draw what you see and label each part.

Inside a bean seed is a tiny young plant. When the seed absorbs water and begins to sprout, a small root usually appears before the shoot. Watch it happen in the Bean in a Jar activity.