National Curriculum Objectives - Changes as you grow - Year 5

In the Year 5 science curriculum, students are expected to delve into the fascinating realm of biological development and life cycles. They are to be taught how humans progress through various stages, from infancy to old age, understanding the physical and possibly cognitive changes that occur throughout a human lifespan. The curriculum extends beyond human development to encompass the life cycles of different living creatures, including mammals, amphibians, insects, and birds. This comparative study highlights the unique aspects and stages of development that characterize each group of animals, providing a broad perspective on the diversity of life.

Additionally, Year 5 pupils are introduced to the processes of reproduction in both plants and animals, gaining insight into how various species procreate and pass on genetic information to their offspring. They are encouraged to explore and know the distinct differences between the life cycles of the creatures studied, as well as the specific reproductive strategies employed by plants and animals. An important aspect of this curriculum involves the creation of a timeline, which serves as a visual aid to help students conceptualize and sequence the stages of growth in humans, thereby enhancing their understanding of the continuous nature of development and the concept of life cycles.