National Curriculum Objectives - Plants - Year 2

In the Year 2 science curriculum, students are expected to engage with the natural world by learning about various aspects of plant life. They must be able to identify and name a range of common wild and garden plants, as well as distinguish between types of trees such as deciduous and evergreen. This foundational knowledge helps to foster an appreciation for biodiversity and the environment around them. Furthermore, pupils are taught to describe the basic structure of common flowering plants and trees, which includes understanding the parts of a plant and their functions, thus laying the groundwork for future scientific inquiry and study.

Substantive knowledge in this area of the curriculum covers understanding the essential requirements for plant growth and health. Pupils learn that plants need specific conditions to thrive, including adequate water, light, and a suitable temperature range. They also explore how trees develop from seeds into mature specimens and are encouraged to recognise and name the trees they encounter in their surroundings. This holistic approach to plant education not only imparts important scientific facts but also encourages observational skills and a deeper connection with the ecosystem that sustains us all.