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
  • Resource type: online activity
  • Theme: Tools for outdoor enquiry

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

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

Use our learning resources with your students to explore the nature on your doorstep and discover the challenges it faces.

Biodiversity is connected to almost every aspect of our lives, but it needs our help. Small actions can make a big difference.