Unit 3: Diversity of Life
Module 6: Kingdom Plantae
Learning Objectives: 3.3 and 1.1, 1.2 from Unit 4
Lesson 2: The Angiosperms (the flowering plants)
Lesson Objectives:
- To discuss some ways that the angiosperms are classified.
- To compare sexual and asexual reproduction in angiosperms.
- To describe the processes of pollen production, fertilization and seed formation in plants.
Evaluation:
- Assignment: Angiosperm Questions [20 marks]
Reproduction in the Angiosperms
The Angiosperms are a diverse group of plants that are commonly referred to as the flowering plants. We often appreciate the flowers of a plant for their beauty, or in some cases, their food. However the most important purpose of flowers lies in the fact that they contain the reproductive structures.
Activity: The Structure of the Flower
Before studying the reproductive process of the angiosperms, you must familiarize yourself with the main reproductive structures and functions of a flower
Use a suitable test book image to diagram the main features of a typical flower or print the images available below.
Flower diagram obtained from BIODIDAC web site.
Label the structures listed below on your diagram of the flower. On a separate page, describe the function or purpose of each of the structures you label.
- pistil (carpel)
- stamen
- ovary
- ovule
- style
- stigma
- filament
- anther
- petal
- sepal
- pedice
Activity: The Angiosperm Life Cycle
Study the life cycle of the flowering plants using the link below, Figure 19.13, and reading p. 452 - 453 Nelson Biology and/or any other suitable diagram of the life cycle.
Assignment: Angiosperm Questions [20 marks]
1. You have studied the life cycles of two of the major groups of plants, the mosses and the flowering plants.
- a) What similarities did you notice between these two life cycles?
- b) What are the major differences between these two life cycles?
2. Describe two ways that "nature" aids with pollination in the flowering plants. Which of these methods is likely to be more efficient? Explain why.
3. Explain the advantage that plants with large brightly coloured flowers have over plants with flowers that are less obvious.
4. Once fertilization takes place the structures surrounding the seed develops into a fruit. Describe three ways that a fruit aids in the dispersal of the seeds that it contains.
5. There are a number of groupings within the angiosperms based on certain characteristics.
- a) Describe the difference between 'woody' and 'herbaceous' angiosperms and list two examples of each type that are native to Saskatchewan.
- b) The herbaceous plants are often classified as 'perennials' or 'annuals'. Describe the characteristics of each of these groups and provide two examples of each type that are commonly found in Saskatchewan.
6. The flowering plants are divided into two main classes - the monocotyledons and the dicotyledons. Explain what a cotyledon is and describe the difference between the seed of a monocot and a dicot.
7. The seed or the seed leaf is not the only characteristics that distinguishes a monocot from a dicot.
- a)Describe four other distinguishing characteristics.
- b) Name two specific examples of both monocots and dicots that are native to Saskatchewan.
8. Describe 'vegetative reproduction'. Provide an example.
