A life cycle is the way in which a living thing changes as it ages.

A mammal is a warm-blooded animal that gives birth to live young and has hair or fur.

A bird is a warm-blooded animal that lays eggs and has feathers, wings and a beak.

A similarity is something that two objects have in common.

A difference between two objects or things is something that is not similar or the same about them.

Comparing the life cycles of mammals and birds

Science

In this Reproduction and life cycles: animals unit, pupils learn to describe the life process of reproduction in some animals. In the Evolution and inheritance unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn that living things produce offspring of the same kind, but normally offspring vary and are not identical to their parents

In the New life unit, pupils learnt that animals, including humans, have offspring which grow into adults. In this Reproduction and life cycles: animals unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to describe the differences in life cycles of different animal groups

Reproduction and life cycles: animals

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Use of equipment that may require supervision for safety, e.g. scissors in KS1, needles, paint, knives, cooking.

We can use scientific diagrams and tables to compare similarities and {{}} between animal life cycles.

Which life cycle stage do mammals and birds share?

What is the name for the life cycle stage at which both birds and mammals can reproduce?

What is the name for this type of diagram that can be used to compare and contrast things?

To translate information into another language.

Which of these is a reason for scientists to use a table or diagram?

Something that is not the same when comparing things.

Match the word to the correct definition.

What is the scientific name for a fully grown mammal?

The mammal has just been born and needs lots of help.

The mammal is still growing and becoming more independent.

The mammal is fully grown and is able to reproduce.

Match the mammal life cycle stage to the correct description.

Egg, {{}}, fledgling, adult. Which stage is missing from the bird life cycle?

Birds lay eggs. Which life process is laying eggs part of?

Which one of these can an adult bird do, but a fledgling bird cannot? 

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Comparing the life cycles of mammals and birds

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.