Practical activity: Explorer cards - ecology

Year 6 Living things and their habitats

• describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including microorganisms, plants and animals
• give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics

Biology: Interactions and interdependencies

Relationships in an ecosystem

• the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem, including food webs and insect pollinated crops
• the importance of plant reproduction through insect pollination in human food security
• how organisms affect, and are affected by, their environment, including the accumulation of toxic materials

Working Scientifically Skills

Experimental skills and investigations

• ask questions and develop a line of enquiry based on observations of the real world, alongside prior knowledge and experience
• make predictions using scientific knowledge and understanding
• use appropriate techniques, apparatus, and materials during fieldwork and laboratory work, paying attention to health and safety
• make and record observations and measurements using a range of methods for different investigations; and evaluate the reliability of methods and suggest possible improvements
• apply sampling techniques

Analysis and evaluation

• present observations and data using appropriate methods, including tables and graphs
• interpret observations and data, including identifying patterns and using observations, measurements and data to draw conclusions
• present reasoned explanations, including explaining data in relation to predictions and hypotheses
• identify further questions arising from their results

KS2 Geography

Geographical skills and fieldwork

• use fieldwork to observe, measure, record and present the human and physical features in the local area using a range of methods, including sketch maps, plans and graphs, and digital technologies

KS3 Geography

Geographical skills and fieldwork

• use fieldwork in contrasting locations to collect, analyse and draw conclusions from geographical data, using multiple sources of increasingly complex information

Human and physical geography

• understand how human and physical processes interact to influence, and change landscapes, environments and the climate; and how human activity relies on effective functioning of natural systems 

Planet Earth

Biodiversity and Interdependence

I can sample and identify living things from different habitats to compare their biodiversity and can suggest reasons for their distribution. SCN 3-01a

• Identifies living things using biological keys.
• Collects and analyses increasingly complex data and information, for example, temperature and light intensity, to suggest reasons for the distribution of organisms within different habitats.

I understand how animal and plant species depend on each other and how living things are adapted for survival. I can predict the impact of population growth and natural hazards on biodiversity. SCN 4-01a

• Summarises research findings to provide examples of structural, physiological and behavioural adaptations which lead to species survival.

Third Level Scientific Skills

Inquiry and Investigative Skills:

Plans and designs scientific investigations and enquiries:

• Demonstrates initiative and increasing independence in identifying a number of key questions and in formulating aims, predictions and hypotheses based on information, observations and knowledge.
• Demonstrates increased levels of collaboration and initiative in decision-making about samples, measurements, equipment and procedures to use.

Carries out practical activities within a variety of learning environments:

• Collects increasingly complex data and information using a range of methods and equipment, for example, data and software analysis tools (where available).

Analyses, interprets and evaluates scientific findings:

• Evaluates a range of aspects of the inquiry/investigation, including the relevance and reliability of evidence, and suggests at least two ways of improving the methodology, if repeated.

Curriculum Subject Links

• The environment and human influences
• Investigate the effects of pollution, for example, water, air, land, sound etc. and specific measures to improve and protect the environment, for example, renewable energy, efficient use of resources and waste minimisation etc.
• Explore the importance of biodiversity, how it impacts on our lives and how it is affected by human activity
• Investigate what can be done to conserve and promote biodiversity, for example, school wildlife gardens / wilderness areas, anti-pollution strategies, habitat management etc.

Curriculum Skill Links

• Thinking, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
• Planning for investigations, obtaining evidence, presenting and interpreting results
• Research scientific information from a range of sources
• Demonstrate a range of practical skills in undertaking experiments, including the safe use of scientific equipment and appropriate mathematical calculations
• Use investigative skills to explore scientific issues, solve problems and make informed decisions
• Research and manage information effectively, using Mathematics and ICT where appropriate
• Demonstrate self-management by working systematically, persisting with tasks, evaluating and improving own performance