The Scientific Observation Experiences of Gifted/Talented Students: Observing Circadian Rhythm in the Common Bean Plant

Abstract

The activity described here was designed to center on the observation of circadian rhythms in plants through the example of growing beans. The aim was to develop students’ skills of systematic observation of various variables in the long-term. Our study took place at a Science and Arts Center with 17 gifted students in the third and fourth grades who were receiving supplementary education at the center. In the first stage of the study, the teacher initiated the cultivation of the plant and the process of observation 2 weeks ahead of the class and based on the experience of the observation, set up a detailed plan for a classroom activity. The activity was carried out in three phases. The first phase involved the planting and germination of the beans in pots. The second phase focused on the first appearance of the plant’s leaves, while the third phase comprised the process of observing the effects of the intensity of light and the changes in temperature in the environment on the opening and closing movements of the leaves. It was found that the gifted students were successful in making long-term, systematic observations of various variables, and that as time passed, their dedication to the project increased. This motivation led them to delve deeper using different individual skills of scientific observation to discover how circadian rhythm is manifested in different plants, thus expanding their framework of accurate observation. We recommend the widespread use of this activity in the education of gifted students.