Start with the outline, then look at the tip, edge and veins. Use descriptive words such as broad, pointed, smooth or bumpy. You do not need to pick the leaf to make a detailed drawing.
With a grown-up: use untreated planting beans; do not eat seeds or sprouts. Keep small seeds away from younger children. Wash hands after handling. An adult should discard any mouldy setup.
Read the complete activity guide ↗
Explore before you start.
Careful observation uses more than a quick glance. Describing shape, colour and texture helps us notice similarities and differences.
Look at the picture, talk about what you notice, then use the drawing and writing spaces below. Open the picture for a closer look.
Start with the outline
Follow the edge with your eyes. Is the tip pointed? Is the leaf broad or narrow? Draw the outside shape before adding details.
Look for veins
Veins form a branching pattern through the leaf and carry materials. Draw the strongest middle line, then add the smaller ones you can actually see.
Compare gently
Two leaves on one plant can be different sizes. Keep them attached and compare their colour, outline and texture without bending or tearing them.
Use a finger, stylus or mouse in each drawing box. Type below it, or ask a grown-up to write your words. Your work stays in this tab. Save before refreshing or leaving.
Look and draw
Draw the outside shape of a leaf. Add any lines you can see.
Describe your leaf
With a grown-up, gently touch a safe leaf on your bean plant. Wash your hands afterward.
Look again later
Observe the same leaf on another day, or compare it with a different leaf.
Your ideas belong here. There is no score.
What are we learning?
Careful observation uses more than a quick glance. Describing shape, colour and texture helps us notice similarities and differences.
Prefer a worksheet?
Open the individual cartoon activity sheet to print or save. Use portrait orientation and fit to page.
Open worksheet to save ↓Try another little investigation.
01How to Grow a BeanSet up a tiny science project with a grown-up. Make a prediction, then check your bean each day.
Draw · Type · Save
02My Plant DiaryLook at the same bean over several days. Record what you actually see—even if nothing has changed yet.
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03How Tall Is Your Plant?Once your seedling is planted in soil, measure its height and compare your records.
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04Parts of My PlantLook for a seed, root, stem and leaf. Draw each part, name it and describe what it does.
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05Life Cycle of a Bean PlantFollow a bean from seed to new seeds. Use the picture cards, then explain the changes in your own words.
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06Decorate Your PlantDesign an imaginary plant with leaves, flowers, pods and seeds. Draw on screen or use the printable cutouts.
Draw · Type · Save