🍁 The Science of Leaves: Why Do They Change Color?

As the air cools and days grow shorter, trees put on one of nature’s most stunning shows — turning green leaves into a tapestry of red, orange, and gold! But what’s happening inside the leaves when they change color? Let’s explore the science behind this transformation, experiment with leaf chromatography, and get creative with fall-inspired art and writing!

🌿 Learn: The Science Behind Fall Colors

Leaves contain pigments — chlorophyll (green), carotenoids (yellow/orange), and anthocyanins (red/purple). In summer, chlorophyll masks the other colors. When daylight fades, chlorophyll breaks down, revealing the hidden hues!

📽️ Educational YouTube Videos

1. SciShow Kids – Why Do Leaves Change Color? Simple and engaging explanation for K–5 learners.

2. The Science of Fall | Compilation | SciShow Kids

3. Autumn Leaves: Behind the Science - Chemicals Behind The Colors What's behind the brilliant colors of fall? What does the weather - and changing climate - have to do with it? Explore the science of autumn leaves with Ivy Makia and Kevin Johnson of Appalachian Headwaters.

4. The Science of Autumn Leaves 🍂

Experiment: Leaf Chromatography

Supplies:

• Fresh green leaves

• Rubbing alcohol

• Coffee filters or chromatography paper

• Jars or cups

• Plastic wrap and rubber bands

Steps:

1. Tear leaves into small pieces and place them in the jar.

2. Pour a small amount of rubbing alcohol over the leaves.

3. Cover with plastic wrap and let sit in warm sunlight for 30–60 minutes.

4. Place a strip of coffee filter into the liquid — watch as the pigments travel up and separate into beautiful colors!

Discussion Questions:

• Which colors do you see?

• Why do some leaves have more red or yellow?

• What does this tell us about the pigments in leaves?

🎨 Create: Art & Craft Projects

1. Leaf Rubbing Collage — Use crayons and real leaves to create colorful textures.

2. Salt-Painted Leaves — Outline a leaf shape in glue, sprinkle salt, then paint with watercolor for a crystal effect.

3. Leaf Suncatchers 1 | Leaf Suncatchers 2 — Press real leaves between wax paper or use tissue paper to make bright window art.

✍️ Write: Literacy Connections

Writing Prompts:

• “If I were a leaf…” — Write a short creative story from a leaf’s perspective in autumn.

• “A Tree’s Autumn Message” — What would a tree say as its leaves change?

• “The Colors of My World” — A descriptive poem using sensory words about fall sights and smells.

  
  

Optional Extension: Publish your student stories in a “Fall Reflections” digital booklet.

🌎 Project-Based Learning Extension

PBL Idea: “Adopt a Tree” Observation Journal Students choose a local tree and document weekly changes through photos, sketches, and temperature/sunlight notes. Include:

• Research the tree species

• Record when leaves change color or fall

• Create a timeline or infographic of their findings

End Product: Students can create a slideshow, poster, or mini documentary about their tree’s transformation!

📚 Fall Read-Aloud YouTube Books

1. “Why Do Leaves Change Color?” by Betsy Maestro

2. “Leaf Man” by Lois Ehlert

3. “Fletcher and the Falling Leaves” by Julia Rawlinson

🌳 Enrich: Cross-Curricular Connections

• Math: Sort and graph different types/colors of leaves.

• Geography: Compare fall foliage maps across the U.S.

• Art & Science Fusion: Use chromatography results as watercolor inspiration for a mural!

Explore More Online!

• Leaf Identification Game Identify Ontario native trees by their leaves and learn their scientific names.

• BioMan Biology “Photosynthesis Interactive Game” Focuses on the role of leaves in photosynthesis: letting students explore how leaves convert light, water, and CO₂ into energy.

• Ecosystem Kids “Labeled Diagram of a Leaf Game Quiz” A game-quiz where students identify parts of a leaf (blade, petiole, veins, etc.) and learn their functions.

At Braintree, we believe in helping students grow through curiosity and creativity. This fall, take time to step outside, collect some leaves, and watch the science of the season unfold right before your eyes. 🍂✨