Summer 1

Project Title: In What Way Is the World Around Us Diverse?

This term, our Year 1 children will become young scientists and artists as they explore the incredible diversity of the animal kingdom. They will learn how scientists classify animals and how art can be used to communicate scientific ideas. The project will culminate in the creation of a mini natural history museum, complete with animal models and fact files created by the children.

What Will the Children Be Learning?

Through a rich and engaging curriculum, children will:

• Science:

  • Identify and name a variety of common animals, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
  • Classify animals based on their diet (carnivores, herbivores, omnivores).
  • Understand the difference between vertebrates and invertebrates.
  • Learn about the five senses and how they help us understand the world.

• Art:

  • Develop observational drawing skills inspired by the work of Beatrix Potter.
  • Learn how to sculpt 3D animal models using a variety of materials.
  • Explore finishing techniques to make their models as realistic as possible.

• Literacy:

  • Create fact files about their chosen animals, using scientific vocabulary and clear sentence structure.
  • Present their learning as tour guides in their class’s natural history museum.

Project Outcome

By the end of the term, each child will have:

• Created a realistic 3D model of a chosen animal.
• Written a fact file to accompany their model.
• Taken part in a classroom exhibition, acting as a tour guide to share their knowledge with visitors.

Enrichment Opportunities

To enhance their learning, children will:

• Explore a virtual tour of the Natural History Museum.
• Handle and observe a variety of animal models and materials.
• Take part in a hands-on sculpting workshop using clay and other media.

Global Learning

Children will explore the theme of sustainable development through discussions about food sources and animal diets, learning where meat, fruits, and vegetables come from and how we can care for the natural world.

Supporting Learning at Home

You can support your child by:

• Talking about different animals and their features.
• Visiting a local zoo, farm, or nature reserve.
• Reading books such as Wild Animals of the World by Dieter Braun or Animalium by Jenny Broom.
• Encouraging your child to observe and draw animals they see in books or in nature.