Different teeth for different food
I can identify which teeth are used to eat different types of food.
Different teeth for different food
I can identify which teeth are used to eat different types of food.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Different types of teeth are shaped differently for different functions.
- Humans are mostly omnivores and therefore have different types of teeth for eating food from animals and plants.
- Different types of teeth can be used to eat the same piece of food.
- Food can be classified according to which teeth are used to eat different foods, using sorting hoops and Venn diagrams.
Keywords
Identify - To identify something is to be able to name it correctly.
Teeth - Teeth are used to break down food before it is swallowed.
Functions - The tasks or jobs that an object has are its functions.
Omnivore - An omnivore is an animal that eats both plants and other animals.
Classify - To classify things is to sort them into groups.
Common misconception
Children may not make the link between types of teeth and types of food we eat.
Show the children, through images and practical investigation, that humans all have the same variety of teeth to eat a variety of food. It might be useful to discuss how non-meat eating humans do still have canine and incisor teeth.
Equipment
Variety of foods to eat - not essential but may be helpful for the children to explore.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
flat, smooth and almost rectangular teeth
sharp and pointed teeth
wide, flat and bumpy teeth
