Plant Reproduction - Lesson Plan

In an engaging lesson plan focused on plant reproduction, students in Year 5 will delve into the fascinating world of how plants create new life. The lesson is designed to enhance students' scientific skills, such as observing over time, pattern seeking, and researching using secondary resources. It aligns with the National Curriculum, aiming to explain the life processes of reproduction in plants, including both sexual and asexual methods. Prior knowledge from earlier years, ranging from identifying parts of a plant in the Early Years Foundation Stage to understanding the role of flowers in the life cycle of plants by Year 3, is built upon. The lesson also creates cross-curricular connections with subjects like English, Maths, and History, and emphasises the importance of health and safety when handling plant materials.

Students will conduct hands-on activities, including one where they experiment with asexual reproduction in plants using common vegetables like potatoes, onions, and carrots. They'll observe growth over time in different conditions, recording their findings and comparing results. Another activity requires taking cuttings from non-woody plants to study artificial vegetative propagation, using rooting powder to encourage growth. The lesson culminates in a plenary session where students assess their understanding of plant reproduction methods and provide examples of asexual reproduction in plants. Throughout the lesson, students are encouraged to correct common misconceptions, such as the belief that all plants must grow from seeds, and are introduced to influential scientists in the field of botany.