Think about the different characteristics that stems have, and write them down. Then go outside and examine at least ten different types of plant stems. Look for stems with the characteristics you listed, and add any new ones you discover. When you return from your observations, answer the following questions for each plant on your list:

What benefits does each stem type have for the plant?
Do the characteristics of a particular stem type provide a benefit not found in other stem types?
Does the stem type help to protect the plant? If so, how?
Classify each stem as herbaceous or woody.