Take a closer look at leaves, pine cones, bark, flowers and other natural objects by placing them in jars of water. The water magnifies the objects so you can get a good look at your treasures. Why not theme your jars to different types of tree or flowers to help you with your ID skills.
Look out for the bubbles of oxygen coming out the tiny stoma (holes) on the underside of the leaves.
What will you need:
- Container for collecting natural materials (e.g. bucket, Tupperware)
- Natural objects like bark, pinecones, leaves or flowers
- Paper and pen
- String
- Glass jars or drinking glasses
How to make a magnifying nature jar:
- Head out and collect your tree materials. Remember to try and collect things from the woodland floor and avoid picking living plants.
- Put the objects into your jar or glass.
- Fill to near the top with water. Be careful when holding your glass.
- Place in a table to bet a good look or hold up your jar to your face.
- Label your jars with pen paper and string to help you compare your natural treasures.
This activity was developed as part of the Let’s Notice Nature initiative of Earn Your Stripes, in partnership with Scottish Badgers
Share a photo of your creatures using #DiscoverLearnPlay