In Science thisweek, Year 1 have been learning about plants and developing their understanding of basic plant structure. The children have been learning to identify and name the different parts of a plant, including the roots, stem, leaves, flowers and the soil in which plants grow. Through class discussions and close observation of real plants, the children explored the function of each part and began to understand how these structures help a plant to grow and stay healthy. For example, they learned that roots anchor the plant into the soil and absorb water and nutrients, the stem supports the plant and transports water, the leaves help the plant make food, and the flowers are involved in reproduction.
The children had the opportunity to observe real plants closely, using their observational skills to notice details such as the shape, size, texture and colour of different plant parts. They discussed their observations using scientific vocabulary and were encouraged to ask questions about how plants grow and what they need to survive, including water, sunlight, air and nutrients from the soil.
Working collaboratively in pairs, the children then created their own plant diagrams using real branches and leaves. They carefully arranged the different parts to represent the structure of a plant and labelled each part accurately. The children practised using key scientific vocabulary such as roots, stem, leaves and flowers, and explained the function of each part to their partner. This supported them in developing their scientific communication skills as well as reinforcing their understanding of plant structure.
This hands-on activity supported the children to develop their observational and classification skills, deepen their understanding of the basic parts of a plant and their functions, and work collaboratively while learning through practical exploration. It also encouraged curiosity about the natural world and helped the children make meaningful connections between scientific ideas and real-life plants they see in their environment
