Natural Sciences - Term 3 - Week 9

Plants and animals are essential parts of our ecosystem. Plants produce oxygen and food through photosynthesis, while animals play various roles, such as pollinators and decomposers. In this lesson, we will explore different types of plants and animals, their habitats, and their unique characteristics. Understanding these concepts helps us appreciate the biodiversity around us.

Let's look at a few examples. The sunflower is a plant that grows tall and has bright yellow petals. It needs sunlight and water to grow. On the other hand, the African elephant is a large animal that lives in savannas and forests. It has a long trunk and large ears, which help it stay cool. By comparing these examples, we can see how plants and animals adapt to their environments.

Now, let's have a class discussion. I will ask you to name a plant or an animal you know. For each one mentioned, we will discuss its characteristics, habitat, and what makes it unique. For example, if someone mentions a cactus, we can talk about how it stores water and survives in the desert. This will help us build our vocabulary and understanding of the topic.

For your mini-project, choose either a plant or an animal that interests you. Create a profile that includes its name, habitat, diet, and three interesting facts. You can draw a picture or find one online to include in your profile. Once completed, we will share our profiles with the class, allowing everyone to learn from each other.

• Respiration
• Photosynthesis
• Digestion
• Transpiration

Answer: Photosynthesis

Plants use photosynthesis to convert sunlight into energy, producing food and oxygen.

• They can photosynthesize.
• They can move on their own.
• They have cell walls.
• They are always green.

Answer: They can move on their own.

Animals are known for their ability to move independently, unlike plants.

Answer: Desert

Cacti are typically found in desert habitats where they can survive with little water.

• Ecosystem
• Habitat
• Biome
• Niche

Answer: Habitat

A habitat is the natural environment where an organism lives and thrives.

Answer: They produce oxygen.

Plants release oxygen into the atmosphere, which is essential for animal life.

• Elephant
• Chameleon
• Tiger
• Penguin

Answer: Chameleon

Chameleons can change their skin color for communication and camouflage.

Answer: They turn to face the sun.

Sunflowers exhibit heliotropism, meaning they turn their heads to follow the sun's movement.

• Mammal
• Reptile
• Amphibian
• Bird