Living and Non-living Things · B6 Science

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: B6.1.1.1.1 - Classify plants based on their root system

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify and name the two main types of root systems: tap root and fibrous root.
Uproot young plants carefully and observe the physical features of their roots.
Sort plants into two groups based on whether they have a tap root or a fibrous root.
Give reasons for their classification using observations of root size, shape and branching.
Create models of tap roots and fibrous roots using blu tack or clay and explain the differences between them.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Diversity of Matter (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Living and Non-living Things (1.1)
Content standard: B6.1.1.1 - Show understanding of the physical features and life processes of living things and use this understanding to classify them
Indicator: B6.1.1.1.1 - Classify plants based on their root system
Suggested placement: Term 1, Week 1 (Week 1 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: Science Curriculum (Basic 4-6), 2019, p. 34
Transcribed from the official NaCCA publication. Check this page against the source.

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

- Review previous lesson on parts of a plant with learners (stem, root, leaves and flowers).
- Learners uproot young plants (e.g. grass, beans, mango, cassava and sweet potato) and bring to class.
- Learners are shown pictures of the root systems of different plants.
- Learners observe and identify the similarities and differences between the roots of the various plants.
- Task learners to put the plants into two main groups based on the similarities in their roots system.
- Learners give reasons for their classifications.
- Build the vocabulary of learners by explaining to them the two main root systems of plants, namely; tap roots and fibrous roots.
- Learners to mould tap root and fibrous root using blu tack and display for discussion.