Plant and animal adaptations in cold environments
I can explain how plants and animals are well adapted to the physical conditions in cold environments and that there are issues related to biodiversity.
Plant and animal adaptations in cold environments
I can explain how plants and animals are well adapted to the physical conditions in cold environments and that there are issues related to biodiversity.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Cold environments are home to a variety of plants and animals.
- Animals in cold environments are well adapted to the physical conditions.
- Plants in cold environments are well adapted to the physical conditions.
- There are issues related to biodiversity in cold environments.
Keywords
Adaptation - evolutionary changes that improve an organism’s chance of survival in its environment
Hibernation - a state that certain animals enter to save energy during periods of unfavourable weather conditions or food shortages
Biodiversity - the variety of different types of life found in a particular area
Ecosystem - a community of living organisms and their interactions with their environment
Common misconception
That due to the extreme cold climate, particularly during the winter months, that all animals must hibernate to save energy.
Only two polar or tundra species enter full hibernation - the grizzly bear and arctic ground squirrel. Many other animals migrate to find food and warmth, while others are highly adapted to remain active and survive the extremely cold winters.
To help you plan your year 10 geography lesson on: Plant and animal adaptations in cold environments, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 geography lesson on: Plant and animal adaptations in cold environments, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 4 geography lessons from the Cold environments unit, dive into the full secondary geography curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
4 Questions
evolutionary changes that improve an organism’s chance of survival
a state that animals enter to save energy during winter
the variety of different types of life found in a particular area
a community of living organisms interacting with the environment