Long-term overview - Habitats - Year 2

In Year 2 Science, pupils delve into the intriguing world of habitats, learning to distinguish between living, dead, and non-living things. The national curriculum outlines a requirement for pupils to explore and compare these differences, with a focus on understanding how living organisms rely on their habitats to meet their basic needs. Pupils are encouraged to identify various plants and animals within different habitats, including microhabitats, and to observe the interdependence between species. They also learn to describe simple food chains, recognizing how animals obtain food from plants and other animals, and identifying different food sources.

The substantive knowledge gained from this curriculum includes recognizing what constitutes a living organism, understanding the essential role of habitats in providing for the needs of plants and animals, and identifying flora and fauna across diverse habitats. Pupils are taught to correlate living things with their respective habitats, comprehend how animals find their food, and articulate simple food chains. The curriculum also prompts pupils to consider why animals choose specific habitats, exploring the various environments such as woodlands, forests, underground settings, and aquatic ecosystems. Through research and classification activities, pupils enhance their understanding of animal adaptation and the importance of habitat conservation. This comprehensive approach lays the groundwork for a deeper appreciation of biology and the natural world.