Knowledge organiser - Plants - Year 1

In the Year 1 curriculum, students are introduced to the fascinating world of plants through a knowledge organiser that outlines essential vocabulary and key knowledge. The vocabulary section helps children understand the difference between 'deciduous' and 'evergreen' trees. Deciduous trees are those that shed their leaves during autumn and remain bare throughout the winter, while evergreen trees retain their foliage all year round. The term 'environment' is defined as the specific area where a plant or tree naturally lives and flourishes. 'Blossom' refers to the flowers that appear on plants before the fruit develops, such as the apple blossom that precedes the growth of an apple. 'Petals' are the often brightly coloured parts of a flower that attract insects, playing a crucial role in the process of pollination, and 'root' describes the part of the plant that exists below the soil, providing stability and nourishment to the plant.

The key knowledge section ensures that students can identify and name different parts of a plant, including the stem, root, petal, and flower. They also learn to distinguish between deciduous and evergreen trees and to recognise a variety of common wild and garden plants, as well as common trees. Furthermore, they are encouraged to become familiar with plants that are native to their local environment. This foundational knowledge in botany sets the stage for understanding how plants grow and interact with their surroundings, which is a crucial part of the science curriculum for Year 1 students.