KS1 Science – Plants and Animals

The course normally runs 10am – 2.30pm. There will be an approx. 30 min lunch slot, the timing will depend on the final agreed course programme.

Pre visit /prior learning

• No prior knowledge is required to attend this day.
• Optional – What a plant is and the structure of a plant and tree. What a habitat is, simple food chains.

Welcome and Introduction

• Welcome and Introductions.
• An overview of the day.
• What are plants? Why are they important? What plants might we recognise and know? The structure of a flower plant.

Morning Session - Plants

• The children will explore the plants in the area using their senses and a range of guided activities.
• They will observe and investigate the structure of a tree and identify the trees and plants they find.
• Children will use identification keys to identify the trees using bark, leaves and buds.
• The children will take part in a group activity which will show them what a seed needs to germinate and what they require to grow and survive.

Afternoon Session – Animals

• What are habitats? What living things might we find there? Where do animals find their food?
• Children will visit one of the habitats below, and collect invertebrates using suitable equipment.
  - In the woodland, under log and leaves
  - From the meadow using sweep nets and by shaking vegetation
  - From the pond using pond nets
• We will identify microhabitats.
•  Using simple classification keys they will identify the freshwater invertebrates and record the numbers found.
• We will identify carnivores, herbivores and omnivores.
• We will identify simple food chain and understand the importance the habitat for shelter and food.

Depart

Future learning/follow up

• Compare what we found with less familiar habitats.

Habitats available

Amersham - Woodland/Grassland/Ponds
Bishops Wood - Woodland/Meadows/Ponds
Birmingham Parks - Woodland/Grassland/Ponds
Epping Forest - Woodland/Meadows/Ponds
London: Bushy Park - Meadows/Ponds
London: Greenwich Park - Woodland/Meadows/Ponds
London: Regent’s Park - Woodland/Meadows
London: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park - due to construction works, these will vary
London: Beckenham Place Park - Woodland/Meadows

Key Stage 1, Science

• Observe closely using simple equipment
• Identifying and classifying
• Using observations and ideas to suggest answers to questions.
• Identify that most living things live in habitats to which they are suited and describe how different habitats provide for the basic needs of different kinds of animals and plants and how they depend on each other.
• Describe how animals obtain their food from plants and other animals, using the idea of a simple food chain and identify and name different sources of food.
• Identify and name a variety of common wild and garden plants, including deciduous and evergreen trees.
• Identify and describe the basic structure of a variety of common flowering plants, including trees.
• Identify and name a variety of plants and animals in their habitats, including micro habitats.

• Develop personal skills
• Have fun
• Be inspired by a passion for the subject
• Build friendships

Customer Information
Details of how to book, terms and conditions, policies and procedures, including risk assessments, can be found on our website here.

Variation
The outline shown is indicative. Whilst we do our best to deliver the agreed programme, we sometimes must change the programme due to for example, weather, access to sites, or staffing issues. Most changes are insignificant and will not affect your trip.

Liaison
This programme is designed to meet the curriculum/specification requirements.
Prior to your visit, one of the Tutors leading your group will be in touch via email. This is an opportunity for us to find out more about the group and to make small adjustments to meet your groups needs.

Tuition
Tuition is delivered by Field Studies Council Tutors, with an expert knowledge of the subject and fieldwork locations, and a passion for the subject being taught. The education team are DBS checked, and undergo regular training including in first aid, water safety and risk assessments.

Transport
There is no requirement for transport during the day. All activities take place on site or within walking distance.

Teaching groups
Your group will be divided into an agreed number of taught groups at the point of booking. This may not match your normal classes. Please subdivide the taught group into subgroups in advance of your visit, discuss with the Tutor at liaison how many subgroups are required.

Teachers and supporting adults
The school should provide teachers and support staff, or parents, to meet minimum ratios per teaching group. Teachers and adults are expected to participate and support the student's learning. Teachers are expected to manage behaviour & support group management, and to supervise break and lunch times.

What to bring
A kit list can be found on our website here. Please adjust this based on the weather conditions. Ensure the group bring lunch and plenty to drink.

Clothing and footwear
Appropriate outdoor clothing (and waterproofs) should be worn, taking into account the weather forecast. The group will be outside most of the day, even in wet weather. It is advised that long trousers are worn, even on sunny days due to the presence of ticks. We advise wearing sensible footwear – trainers or walking boots that can get muddy.