How are seeds dispersed? - teacher's notes

This teaching unit is centred around the exploration of pollination and seed dispersal in plants, aiming to educate pupils on the various methods through which plants reproduce and spread their offspring. Initially, the unit addresses the concepts of self-pollination and cross-pollination, helping students to understand the different ways in which plants can transfer pollen to achieve fertilisation. Following this, the focus shifts to the mechanisms of seed dispersal, an essential process for the propagation of plant species.

As a key resource for this unit, pupils are encouraged to engage with a BBC Bitesize video that explains how plants spread their seeds. This visual aid is intended to complement the written information provided, offering a multimedia approach to learning. After viewing the material, students are expected to describe each method of seed dispersal and evaluate the pros and cons associated with these strategies. The unit is designed to not only impart knowledge on the biological functions of plants but also to foster critical thinking by weighing the effectiveness of different dispersal methods.