Botanical Leaf Chlorophyll Sun-Decal Negative Stencil

30 mins Ages 7-9 Outdoor

An engaging, screen-free learning activity that builds real-world creativity and critical thinking for kids aged 7 to 9.

Materials Needed

  • • Black electrical tape or black cardstock with paperclips (1 unit)
  • • Broad living plant leaf on a bush or tree (outdoor access)
  • • Scissors (1 pair)

Pro Tips

  • → Cut a heart or star shape from opaque black electrical tape and stick it onto the top surface of a broad, healthy garden leaf.
  • → Leave the tape attached for 4 days in bright sun: covered areas cannot photosynthesize and stop producing bright green chlorophyll.
  • → Peel the tape away: a pale yellow silhouette appears where sunlight was blocked, while the surrounding leaf stays dark green.

Safety First

Do not rip or damage the plant stem; leave the leaf living and attached to the plant.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Step 1

Cut a small 2 cm geometric shape (star, circle, or initial) from opaque black electrical tape.

2

Step 2

Choose a broad, healthy green garden leaf that receives direct midday sunlight.

3

Step 3

Press the black tape shape firmly onto the top surface of the leaf, taking care not to tear the plant stem.

4

Step 4

Leave in place for 4 days, then peel the tape away to reveal the pale, light-blocked silhouette on the leaf.

What they are learning

Photosynthetic chlorophyll pigment synthesis Solar radiation requirement in leaves Negative stencil plant photo-bleaching