Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA) Early Childhood Education Practice Test

What scientific concept does a teacher model by observing a flower's petals turn blue in colored water?

1. Plant reproduction

2. Photosynthesis

3. Nutrient absorption

4. Water conservation

The correct answer is: Nutrient absorption

The observation of a flower's petals turning blue in colored water illustrates the concept of nutrient absorption. This phenomenon occurs when the colored water is taken up through the stem and into the petals, demonstrating how plants absorb water and dissolved nutrients from their environment. Through this visual demonstration, students can effectively grasp how plants interact with their surroundings, particularly focusing on the transport mechanisms involved in nutrient uptake. This experiment not only engages students visually but also provides a practical demonstration of the processes involved in plant biology, specifically emphasizing the significance of roots and stems in delivering essential substances that contribute to the plant's overall health and functionality. This understanding of how external nutrients influence plant characteristics is foundational in early childhood education science curricula.