Practical resources: Biological records

This resource explains how your class's wildlife observations can make a vital contribution to scientific research. It details how to submit their observations to biological recording schemes, adding to the rich datasets that span centuries and provide valuable information on the current state of nature in the UK.

Key Stage: KS2, KS3

Download resource (PDF 210KB)

About this resource

Resource type: online activity
Theme: Tools for outdoor enquiry

Curriculum links
- England
  
  Year 6 Living things and their habitats
  
  describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including microorganisms, plants and animals
  
  give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics
  
  Biology: Interactions and interdependencies
  
  Relationships in an ecosystem
  
  the interdependence of organisms in an ecosystem, including food webs and insect pollinated crops
  
  Biology: Structure and function of living organisms
  
  Reproduction
  
  reproduction in plants, including flower structure, wind and insect pollination, fertilisation, seed and fruit formation and dispersal, including quantitative investigation of some dispersal mechanisms
  
  Working Scientifically Skills
  
  Scientific attitudes
  
  pay attention to objectivity and concern for accuracy, precision, repeatability and reproducibility
  
  evaluate risks
  
  Experimental skills and investigations
  
  ask questions and develop a line of enquiry based on observations of the real world, alongside prior knowledge and experience
  
  make predictions using scientific knowledge and understanding
  
  use appropriate techniques, apparatus, and materials during fieldwork and laboratory work, paying attention to health and safety
  
  make and record observations and measurements using a range of methods for different investigations; and evaluate the reliability of methods and suggest possible improvements
  
  Analysis and evaluation
  
  present observations and data using appropriate methods, including tables and graphs
  
  interpret observations and data, including identifying patterns and using observations, measurements and data to draw conclusions
  
  present reasoned explanations, including explaining data in relation to predictions and hypotheses
  
  identify further questions arising from their results
- Northern Ireland
  
  Curriculum Subject Links
  
  Explore the importance of biodiversity, how it impacts on our lives and how it is affected by human activity
  
  Curriculum Skill Links
  
  Research scientific information from a range of sources
  
  Use investigative skills to explore scientific issues, solve problems and make informed decisions
  
  Research and manage information effectively, using Mathematics and ICT where appropriate
  
  Demonstrate self-management by working systematically, persisting with tasks, evaluating and improving own performance