Lesson No: 4 Unit Title: Variation and Classification

Unit No: 7D

Lesson Title: Describing Differences

NC Ref:

Objectives:
MK — there are different ways of describing organisms; that living things can be
classified into groups. Word: classification
SK — how to classify subtle variations into groups.
CK~
Lesson outline:      
Starter:

Explain because of the wide range of variation (already seen) there are different ways of describing organisms: 2 x kingdoms (animals and plants)

Look at examples on p.50 in the pupil book. Discuss these and ask which is the best way to provide concise factual information that cannot be misinterpreted

[the poem conveys dramatic impact, the prose treats animals as having human emotions, the field guide is used to convey factual information only so that an organism can be identified].

Activity:    

1. Provide a range of preserved specimens. Pupils record their observations, you/they can devise own table for recording observations or use worksheet 7Dc/2.
Encourage the use of correct/scientific terms. Discuss the results of the observations and lead into classification. Which are the best features to use; how reliable are their observations?

2. Introduce the idea of vertebrates (with backbones) and invertebrates (without backbones)

W/sheet 7Dc/1 provides a range of pictures of vertebrate animals. Skill sheet 51 and SS52 provide further examples.

Pupils can design a table to show some of the differences between the animals (e.g. number of legs, body shape, body markings). Weaker pupils could use W/sheet 7Dc2 again

Plenary:      Recap the best way to describe organisms, and the principles of classifying into groups.

Homework:
Describe an organism of their choice in two ways 1. descriptively 2. factually

Resources:
Range of preserved specimens
Worksheets 7Dc/2, 7Dc/3

Risk Assessment:
Pupils must not open specimen jars