Animal skeletons
I can compare and group vertebrate animals based on their skeleton.
Animal skeletons
I can compare and group vertebrate animals based on their skeleton.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Different animals have different skeletons, including its size, shape and number of bones
- A skeleton that is inside of the body is called an endoskeleton
- Animals that have a spine inside their bodies are classed as vertebrates
Keywords
Skeleton - A skeleton is the set of bones inside an animal's body that supports its shape, helps it move, and protects important parts.
Compare - We compare things by looking at what is the same and what is different.
Endoskeleton - Animals with an endoskeleton have an internal skeleton.
Vertebrate - A vertebrate is an animal with an internal skeleton, including a spine.
Spine - The backbone of an animal is also called its spine.
Common misconception
Children often believe 'bendy' animals do not have a spine so classify them as invertebrates.
Use images of X-rays/ skeletons of snakes and eels will illustrate that they have spines and are therefore vertebrates.
Equipment
see addtional guidance
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
- Exploration of objects
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions


fish
bird
amphibian
mammal
reptile

reptile
mammal
fish
bird
amphibian


Exit quiz
6 Questions




