Link it! Prior knowledge - Biomes - Year 4

When introducing the concept of biomes to Year 4 students, it is important to connect new information with what they already know. Children may not be familiar with the term 'biomes' itself, but many will have some understanding of rainforests and deserts. These are actually examples of different biomes, which are large areas of the earth with similar climate, plants, and animals. To help students make connections, they should be encouraged to think about what they've previously learned about the various continents and how climate can vary greatly from one part of the world to another. This prior knowledge is crucial as it lays the foundation for understanding the diversity of biomes.

In addition to recognising different climates, some children may have heard of the polar regions. While they might not have used the term 'tundra', this is another type of biome they may be somewhat familiar with. By recording what they already know in the 'Prior Knowledge' section of their Knowledge Organiser, students can create a personal link to the topic. This approach helps to bridge the gap between new concepts and their existing understanding, which can come from different subjects, such as geography's focus on continents, or from personal experiences like holidays, documentaries, or stories about faraway places. Engaging with biomes in this way allows children to build a more comprehensive and relatable understanding of the world's various ecosystems.