Great once found himself in a dangerous situation while exploring an unknown area. A strange plant saved his life by warning him of an approaching ambush. Although this is a fascinating tale, in reality, plants don't possess the ability to communicate in the way we humans understand it. However, they do have their own unique ways of exchanging information.
Plants use a variety of methods to convey information, especially in response to environmental changes or threats. One such method is through the release of chemicals into the air. When attacked by insects, for instance, they can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as a form of distress signal, which can alert nearby plants to prepare their defenses (6). These chemicals can also attract natural predators of the pests, creating a sort of indirect communication.
Another remarkable feature of plants is their ability to sense and respond to light. Phototropism is the phenomenon where plants grow towards a light source, ensuring optimal photosynthesis. Similarly, they can detect the shadows cast by nearby objects, allowing them to adjust their growth patterns accordingly.
Water plays a crucial role in plant life, and plants have evolved to manage water availability effectively. They can sense the amount of water in the soil and adjust their root growth and leaf openings to conserve or absorb more水分 (4). Additionally, some plants have developed intricate root systems that allow them to share nutrients and water with neighboring plants, fostering a cooperative ecosystem.
As for human beings, understanding the language of plants has led to advancements in agriculture and horticulture. The use of pesticides (7), as mentioned earlier, is a direct result of our efforts to protect crops from harmful organisms. However, excessive use of these chemicals can cause severe environmental damage. Modern farming practices emphasize the importance of biological control and integrated pest management, which rely on natural processes to maintain a balance in the ecosystem.
In terms of language and communication, the lesson from Unit 5 "Revealing Nature" encourages students to explore the idea of presenting ideas effectively. In the context of learning English, this involves developing a clear structure for arguments, using appropriate vocabulary and expressions, and connecting ideas logically (1, 2, 3, 5). The provided exercise set helps students practice these skills through tasks like word spelling, short phrase application, and sentence construction.
For instance, students are asked to complete sentences with the correct forms of words like "detect" (1), "root" (2), and "connect" (3), enhancing their understanding of these words in context. They also practice using key phrases like "link...to..." (1), "amounts of" (2), and "communicate with" (3), reinforcing their ability to express themselves in English.
In conclusion, while plants may not literally speak like in myths and legends, they possess remarkable ways of communicating and adapting to their surroundings. The study of these mechanisms has not only deepened our understanding of the natural world but has also influenced our agricultural practices and the development of sustainable solutions. Meanwhile, the "Developing ideas & Presenting ideas" lesson provides an opportunity for students to sharpen their language skills, equipping them to articulate their thoughts more effectively in English.
