Botanic Gardens

On 14th December, the whole of Prep 5 visited the Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh.  This was a fantastic end to our Rainforest topic.  Two ladies gave us a talk and then showed us around the massive greenhouses telling us about the uses of the different plants.  One plant closed up when we touched it.  The strangler fig wrapped itself round a tree.  It was really interesting because the guides carried a bag of tricks and, every so often, produced a mystery item.  We all loved the blowpipe; Claire managed to pierce a balloon.  The ladies gave us clues about various plants and we had to work in groups to try and find them.  Some of us stopped for shelter under the enormous banana leaves!  Another great bit was at the end when we were allowed to sniff vanilla and taste chocolate.  All in all, it was a brilliant trip because we saw some of the things we had been learning about and also found out new facts too.  We should all definitely try to save the rainforests. 

Isla Banerji and Madeleine Moore (Prep 5H)