Link it! Prior knowledge - Skeletons and Muscles - Year 3

Delving into the fascinating world of human biology, Year 3 students are encouraged to explore their prior knowledge of skeletons and muscles. The lesson aims to link what they already know from various contexts to the new topic they are about to study. Students will acknowledge that human bodies comprise numerous bones, a fact most will be familiar with. They may also recall discussing muscles during their physical education sessions in Key Stage 1, giving them a foundational understanding of the body's movement mechanics.

The lesson further connects to previous learnings from food technology and health education, where many students would have encountered the concept of a balanced diet and its role in maintaining healthy muscles. Personal observations such as noticing how muscles expand and contract when bending their arms bring an experiential learning aspect to the classroom. Teachers are encouraged to facilitate discussions that allow children to share and document their existing knowledge in the 'Prior Knowledge' section of the Knowledge Organiser. This exercise not only activates their existing understanding but also sets the stage for a deeper inquiry into why humans have skeletons and muscles.