Step Into Science: Plants
#1 in Step-up science Series
What’s inside...
An educational journey into the world of plants, exploring their life cycles, habitats, and importance to the environment. The book takes the magical charm of collecting curiosities and combines it with the science behind the wonders of the natural world. It encourages children to take a closer look at objects and the world around them, and to question how and why nature designs things in certain ways. It focuses on different types of plants, including trees, flowers, grasses and fungi found in various habitats such as parks, gardens, fields, ponds, and woods. The book aims to engage KS1 readers with core science and nature topics while developing key skills in thinking and reasoning in an utterly absorbing and charming way.
Discussion points
What do you think plants need to grow and why?
Can you name some of the different parts of a plant and their functions?
How do you think plants help us and the environment?
How do plants change with the seasons?
If you were a plant, what kind would you want to be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically by asking them to relate the content of the book to their own observations in nature or gardens.
Use the illustrations in the book to point out details and ask your child to describe what they see and how it relates to the information being read.
Connect the discussion to your child’s experiences by asking if they remember any plants they've seen in parks, schools, or during travels.
After the discussion, consider planting a small plant together to give a practical understanding of the book’s teachings.
Praise your child’s responses to nurture their interest and confidence in discussing scientific topics.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Plant Biology
Explanation: The book provides detailed explanations and engaging illustrations that demonstrate the biology of plants, including photosynthesis and plant growth.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge in everyday life by observing plants in their surroundings and understanding how they grow and function.
Example Lesson: Importance of Environmental Care
Explanation: Through the narrative, the book teaches children the significance of plants in the ecosystem and encourages practices that support the environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and care for plants in their community and understand their role in maintaining ecological balance.
Example Lesson: Scientific Inquiry and Exploration
Explanation: The book encourages children to ask questions and explore the world of plants through experiments and observations.
Real-World Application: This fosters a culture of scientific inquiry where children can conduct simple experiments at home or school to explore the nature of plants.