Botany: Fundamentals of Plant Science

This eight week live course will introduce students to the world of plants. Students will learn about plant classification, morphology, anatomy, physiology and evolution. 

Topics to be covered include plant cells, photosynthesis, structures (roots, shoots, flowers, leaves etc), vascular and non vascular plants, classification, reproduction, evolution, symbiosis and plant ecology.   

The class will provide a broad overview of the field of botany. During class discussions we will connect the material with the other life sciences and areas of student interest. 


We will examine questions such as, but not limited to:

What important ecological roles do plants play?
How do plants use sunlight?
What is the difference between plants and fungi?
What do plants have in common with animals?
How do vascular and non-vascular plants differ?
What kind symbiotic relationships can plants form?


There is no textbook for this class. All necessary learning materials will be provided in the classroom.

There are no prerequisite classes for this course, just a love of learning and curiosity about the living world.

Classes are designed to encourage student engagement and follow their curiosity.


Week One - Plant Cells and Photosynthesis
Week Two – Plant Classification
Week Three – Non-vascular Plants
Week Four – Vascular Plants
Week Five – Leaves, Trees and Grasses
Week Six – Plant Reproduction
Week Seven – Plant Adaptation
Week Eight – Symbiosis


The class is lecture and discussion based. Learners will view and participate in a presentation full of images and some videos. They will have the opportunity to ask questions and think critically about the world of plants!