How and why we group plants
I can explain how plants can be grouped using observable characteristics.
How and why we group plants
I can explain how plants can be grouped using observable characteristics.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Scientists group plants to make it easier to identify, name and learn about them.
- Plants can be divided into groups or 'classified' by looking at the similarities and differences between them.
- Generally, plant life can be broken up into flowering plants and non-flowering plants.
- Plants can be grouped according to if they do or do not produce seeds.
- We can create classification keys by asking a series of yes/no questions about the observable characteristics of plants.
Keywords
Classify - To classify things is to sort them into groups.
Flowering - Flowering plants reproduce by making seeds inside flowers.
Non-flowering - Non-flowering plants reproduce by making spores.
Seeds - Some plants reproduce by making seeds.
Spores - Some plants reproduce by making spores.
Common misconception
Pupils may think that all plants are green or that anything without a flower is not a plant.
Highlight the many examples of plants with different shapes, sizes and colours that are included in the lesson resources, reminding children that all of these are plants because they are living things that use the Sun’s light to make food.
Equipment
Clipboards
Content guidance
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
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
anchor the plant and take in water
supports other parts of the plant and transports water and nutrients
where the plant makes its food
contains the reproductive parts of the plant
Exit quiz
6 Questions
seeds made in cones
spores
seeds made in flowers
