To observe is to look very closely and use other senses too.

We put similar things together in groups.

An observable characteristic is a feature of a living thing that we can see or describe using our senses. We can use these to help identify it.

To classify is to sort objects into groups based on their similarities and differences.

Grouping plants 

Science

In this Living things and the environment unit, pupils learn to explore and use classification keys to help group, identify and name living things. In the Why we group and classify living things unit, they will build on this knowledge to give reasons why we classify plants and animals based on specific characteristics

In the Living things and where they live unit, pupils learnt that things can be grouped into: alive, dead and never alive. In this Living things in the environment unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to recognsie that living things can be grouped in a wider variety of ways

Living things and the environment

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Activity that requires collection of items from an area (room, building).

Which of these are features of some plants?

Which of the plants listed could be added to the group of plants that are trees?

Which of these are observable characteristics of plants with flowers?

When scientists group plants based on their similarities and differences it is called {{}}. 

All the plants in this group have thorns. 

All the leaves in this group have rounded lobes.

All the plants in this group are very small.

Match the description of the plant groups to its correct observable characteristic. 

In which group would moss, ferns and conifers be classified?

 takes up water and nutrients from the soil and anchors the plant

 carries water and nutrients to different parts of the plant

Match the parts of the plant to its function. 

Which of these are observable characteristics?

To show objects that have features in common. 

Why might a scientist use this type of diagram ? 

What is the name of this type of diagram?

Content guidance

Exploration of objects

Adult supervision recommended

Starter Quiz