To begin, first remove the compound microscopes from storage, and place them at the appropriate stations around the room, then place one dissecting microscope at each station. NOTE: One set of microscopes for a group of four students works well.

Next, acquire prepared slides of moss antheridia, moss archegonia, onion stomata, and conifer pollen, and then place one slide at each microscope station.

Now, set out materials needed for plant analysis, like rulers to measure plant height, and magnifying glasses to analyze leaf venation.

Finally, before the lab, identify outdoor locations where students will be able to identify plants from all three of the major groups. Multiple locations with different habitats may be necessary. IMPORTANT: Remind students to wear appropriate protective gear for the field setting.