Animal Life Cycles and Reproduction - Lesson Plan

The lesson plan provided by The Primary Science Advisory Service Ltd revolves around the fascinating subject of animal life cycles and reproduction, tailored for primary school students. It is an integral part of the National Curriculum, aiming to deepen the understanding of the reproductive processes in various animals, including mammals, amphibians, insects, and birds. Pupils will engage in a range of scientific skills, such as observing over time, pattern seeking, and researching using secondary resources. The lesson builds on previous knowledge, with links to the Key Stage 2 curriculum, particularly focusing on evolution, inheritance, and classification of living things. Through hands-on activities, like worm charming and creating a worm farm, students will explore these concepts practically. They will also be encouraged to consider the importance of certain safety measures, such as handwashing after handling animals and being cautious of allergies when working outdoors.

Within this lesson, students will confront and correct common misconceptions about animal reproduction, such as the belief that all mammals give birth to live young, whereas in reality, some, like the platypus, lay eggs. The lesson includes a variety of activities, such as comparing life cycles using animal life cycle cards and creating informative posters on specific animals' life cycles. These activities aim to help students grasp the differences and similarities in the reproductive processes and life cycles of different animal groups. They will also learn about the role of influential scientists in the field of biology and use a range of equipment to conduct their experiments. The lesson culminates in a plenary session where students assess their understanding and progress in learning about animal reproduction and life cycles.