Atti-Patti in Living with Non-Living – Class 6 Science Experiment

Chapter Name: Living with Non-Living

Activity Name: Atti-Patti in Living with Non-Living

Activity Description:

In this experiment, we will observe the response of a touch me not (Atti-patti or mimosa) plant when it is touched. This experiment aims to demonstrate that plants also respond to stimuli, just like living organisms.

Required Items:

1. Touch me not (Atti-patti or mimosa) plant
2. Stopwatch or timer (optional)
3. Notebook or recording sheet
4. Pen or pencil

Step by Step Procedure:

1. Find a touch me not (Atti-patti or mimosa) plant. These plants are commonly found in gardens or can be obtained from a local nursery.
2. Set up a comfortable workspace near the plant where you can observe it easily.
3. Begin by gently touching one of the plant’s leaves. Use your finger or a soft object to apply a light touch.
4. Observe the plant’s response. Notice if the leaf closes or if there are any noticeable movements.
5. Record your observations in your notebook or recording sheet. Include details such as the time taken for the response and the extent of the leaf’s movement.
6. Repeat the process of touching different leaves on the plant and observe their responses. Make note of any variations you observe.
7. If you have a stopwatch or timer, you can use it to measure the time it takes for the plant to return to its previous position after being touched. Start the timer as soon as the leaf closes and stop it when the leaf opens again.
8. Take note of the time taken by each leaf to return to its original position.
9. Once you have completed your observations, carefully put the plant back in its original position and ensure it is well taken care of.

Experiment Observations:

1. When the touch me not (Atti-patti or mimosa) plant is touched, the leaves close or fold inward.
2. The degree of leaf movement may vary from leaf to leaf. Some leaves may fold completely, while others may only partially close.
3. The time taken for the plant to return to its previous position varies but is usually within a few minutes.
4. Repeated touching of the same leaf may result in a slower response or no response at all.

Precautions:

1. Handle the touch me not (Atti-patti or mimosa) plant with care to avoid damaging its delicate leaves or stems.
2. Do not apply excessive force while touching the plant, as it may cause damage.
3. Ensure that the plant is healthy and well-watered before conducting the experiment.
4. Observe the plant in a quiet environment to minimize external disturbances that could affect its response.

Lesson Learnt from Experiment:

The Atti-patti (touch me not or mimosa) plant demonstrates a response to touch, closing its leaves when stimulated. This experiment highlights that plants, like living organisms, can sense and respond to stimuli in their environment.

It provides evidence that plants exhibit certain behaviors and reactions, showcasing their ability to adapt and interact with their surroundings. This observation also correlates with other plant responses to stimuli, such as blooming in response to sunlight or shedding leaves in response to changes in temperature.