Y5/6 (B): Lesson 2: Life cycle of a mammal

Arrange the class into the same groups from the asexual reproduction cutting activity (see Lesson 1: Life cycles and reproduction in plants). Provide each group with a 30 cm ruler, the tablet they used to photograph their cutting and the Activity: Stem cutting data table (one each) from Lesson 1: Life cycles and reproduction in plants. Instruct the group to collect their plant cutting, photograph it and measure any plant root growth with the ruler.

Demonstrate how to measure plant root growth:

1. Take the mint out of the water and pat dry gently with a paper towel.

2. Lay the plant next to the ruler so the 0 cm line of the ruler is lined up with the end of the stem/start of the roots.

3. Gently pull the roots straight and measure their length in millimetres (mm).

Remind them to record the root growth in week one of the data table.

Ask the groups to discuss the following questions and take feedback: