Grouping plants
I can use observable characteristics to classify plants in different ways.
- Year 4
Grouping plants
I can use observable characteristics to classify plants in different ways.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Many plants have similar features that allow us to sort them into groups.
- Plants can be grouped by their observable characteristics.
- Observable characteristics can include information about colour, size, shape and structure.
- The process of grouping plants based on their similarities and differences is called classification.
- Plants can be classified into categories such as flowering plants and non-flowering plants.
Keywords
Observe - To observe is to look very closely and use other senses too.
Groups - We put similar things together in groups.
Observable characteristics - An observable characteristic is a feature of a living thing that we can see or describe using our senses. We can use these to help identify it.
Classify - To classify is to sort objects into groups based on their similarities and differences.
Common misconception
Pupils may believe that all plants are green and have flowers.
Clarify with a range of examples that some plants have flowers and some don't. Discuss with the pupils if they think even flowering plants will always have a flower on them all year round.
Equipment
Access to secondary sources or the outdoors to find other plants.
Content guidance
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these are plants?




Q2.What do all plants have in common?
Q3.Match the parts of the plant to its function.
Q4.Which of these are observable characteristics?
Q5.Why might a scientist use this type of diagram ?

Q6.What is the name of this type of diagram?

Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of these are features of some plants?
Q2.Which of the plants listed could be added to the group of plants that are trees?
