Knowledge Organiser
Key Vocabulary
|
Vocabulary |
Definition |
|---|---|
|
Carnivore |
An animal that primarily eats meat. |
|
Herbivore |
An animal that primarily eats plants. |
|
Omnivore |
An animal that eats both plants and meat. |
|
Habitat |
The natural environment where an animal lives. |
|
Adaptation |
A change in an animal that helps it survive in its environment. |
|
Enclosure |
A space or structure that keeps animals contained, such as a pen or a cage. |
|
Zookeeper |
A person who takes care of animals in a zoo. |
|
Collage |
An artwork made by combining different materials and textures together. |
|
Rhythm |
A strong, regular repeated pattern of movement or sound. |
|
Symmetry |
A design that is the same on both sides. |
Timeline of Important Concepts
- Types of Animals - Understanding the differences between various types of animals (e.g., carnivores, herbivores, omnivores).
- Animal Needs - Exploration of what pets and wild animals need to survive: food, water, shelter, grooming, and exercise.
- Animal Behaviour - Observing and discussing how animals behave in different situations.
- Art and Representation - Expressing understanding of animals through drawing, painting, and collaging.
- Storytelling and Literature - Engaging with narratives that involve animals, encouraging creative writing and retelling stories.
Useful Websites
Interesting Facts
- Did you know that tigers can swim? Unlike most cats, they enjoy playing in the water!
- A group of kittens is called a "kindle" and a group of adult cats is known as a "clowder."
- The African lion is the only species of big cat that lives in groups known as prides.
- A rabbit's teeth never stop growing — they can grow up to 5 inches in length!
Endpoints - What Students Should Know by the End of the Topic
- Identify Different Animals: Be able to categorise animals based on their food preferences (carnivore, herbivore, omnivore).
- Understand Animal Care: Describe how to look after popular pets and the responsibilities involved.
- Create Animal Art: Use various techniques to produce an art piece inspired by animals.
- Narrate Animal Stories: Retell and create stories featuring animals, incorporating elements of narrative structure.
- Discuss Habitats: Explain how different environments affect animal life and survival.
In this exciting topic, "Project Paws, Claws and Whiskers," students in Year 3 and Year 4 will immerse themselves in the world of animals, exploring their characteristics, habitats, needs, and roles in our lives. This knowledge organiser serves as a guide for both teachers and pupils, highlighting essential vocabulary, key concepts, and crucial endpoints that align with the 2014 National Curriculum in England.
Lesson Overview
Over the course of the lessons, students will engage in a variety of hands-on activities and discussions that deepen their understanding of animal life, foster creativity through art and storytelling, and cultivate a sense of responsibility for caring for animals. Each lesson builds on the last, ensuring that students not only learn factual information but also develop skills in listening, speaking, and writing about their experiences and understanding of animals.