Habitats and Adaptations

Year 2 and KS2 versions available supporting the Science Curriculum. The Habitats & Adaptations programme is a series of activities that explores, compares and contrasts different habitats at the Botanic Garden

1.  Minibeast hunting in microhabitats

2. Woodland- years 2/3 bark + leaf rubbing, years 4,5,6 comparing light levels under evergreen and deciduous trees

3. Pond dipping - using nets to find animals 

4. Alpine glasshouse- KS2 plant adaptations in high mountains 

5.  Desert glasshouse- KS2 adaptations to little water, Yr2 draw a cacti in sand and on paper

6. Topical rainforest glasshouse- KS2 adaptations in plants for low light and excess water Yr2- match items to the plants that are used to make them

 For KS2 Temperature, light intensity and sound levels are measured using data-loggers to compare the different habitats and the children are given the opportunity to record their findings in a variety of ways. They have an opportunity to experience pond dipping and mini-beast hunting and use identification keys.

The programme includes an introduction and a member of our staff to support you throughout the day with pond dipping.  You will receive the worksheets for the year group of children you have booked to photocopy.  

Teachers who have already taken part in this programme have said how relevant the activities are to the curriculum and how much the children have learnt.

• Availability: March to November
• Age group: Years 2-6 
• Numbers: Up to two classes per day (70 maximum)
• Duration: A 20-30 minute taught introduction followed by 30 minutes in each of the six habitats (Year 2 look at five habitats 1.2.3.5.6)
• Organisation: The children need to be organised in at least three groups for one class and in five / six small groups for two classes, each accompanied by an adult provided by the school
• Cost: Please visit our programme costs page