Materials
Why Do Leaves Change Color? by Betsy Maestro
Fall leaves of various colors
Instructions
1. Read the book and discuss with the children the color change process.
2. Tell the children the names of the pigments responsible for the change: xanthophyll, carotene and anthocyanin.
3. Take the children on a fall walk to collect colored leaves.
4. Gather them together in a group and teach the pigment names using the leaves as visual aids and the rhyme below.Original poemXanthophyll, xanthophyllPretty yellow fellowWhen it turns old, he makes leaves goldXanthophyll is yellow.Carotene, caroteneIt's orange as can beWhen fall is near, orange leaves are hereCarotene is orange.Anthocyanin, anthocyaninIt makes red so brightInside the leaves it hides till fallAnd turns leaves red out of sight!
