Wider Curriculum Y3 Summer 1
In What Way Is the World Around Us Diverse?
Big Question:
What do all plants have and need in order to survive?
Overview
This term, Year 3 will explore the fascinating world of plants through science and art. Children will learn about the parts of plants, their functions, and what they need to grow and survive. They will investigate plant growth conditions, study life cycles, and discover how water is transported within plants. Alongside this, they will explore how plants have inspired artists and create a 3D wire sculpture of a plant to represent their learning.
What Will Children Learn?
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Science:
- Functions of roots, stems, leaves, and flowers.
- Conditions needed for plant growth.
- How water is transported within plants.
- Life cycle of flowering plants, including pollination and seed dispersal.
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Art:
- How plants are represented in art.
- Sketching techniques and texture creation.
- Designing and creating a 3D sculpture using wire and mixed media.
Key Experiences
✅ Growing plants from seeds
✅ Investigating factors that affect plant growth
✅ Exploring famous plant-inspired artworks
✅ Creating a wire sculpture of a plant with added textures and embellishments
Why This Matters
This project helps children appreciate biodiversity and understand the science behind plant life. It also develops creativity and design skills, linking scientific knowledge to artistic expression.
How You Can Support at Home
- Grow a plant together and observe its growth.
- Talk about what plants need to survive and compare different types of plants.
- Visit a garden, park, or greenhouse to explore plant diversity.
- Encourage sketching plants or taking photos of interesting flowers and leaves.
The Final Outcome
By the end of the term, children will:
- Understand what plants need to survive and how they grow.
- Explain the life cycle of a flowering plant.
- Create a 3D wire sculpture of a plant that represents their scientific knowledge and artistic creativity.
- Present their learning to an audience using their sculpture as a visual aid.


