Problems and projects for the teaching of the higher plants

Abstract

Scope of Study: The teaching of biology is interesting and inspiring if the teacher makes use of the living world about him. One of the most effective methods for using living organisms in teaching is the problem and project method. This report presents the teaching of the higher plants by this method. It includes thirty-two problems and projects by which they may be solved. This is only one part of a large continuous project, from which many problems would branch to complete. This report is part of the preplanning which is needed in the problem-solving approach in teaching.

Findings and Conclusions: There are many problems and projects that can be used to make the teaching of higher plants interesting and challenging to the students. They should be chosen and varied to fit the experiences and needs of the group of students. The experiments can be so devised that they will require only inexpensive or easily obtainable equipment. In many cases, the students will be able to plan and carry out their projects, but the teacher should be prepared to guide them in the right direction. The project may consist of experimental work, careful observations, checking of data, as well as confirmation of results by the use of some source of authority. The solution of each problem should have some definite contribution to an understanding of life.