Habitats and Adaptations

For KS2/3 class or year group supporting the Science Curriculum

The Habitats and Adaptations programme is a series of activities that explores, compares and contrasts different habitats at the Botanic Garden. These include:

1. Tropical rainforest
2. Desert
3. Logs, grass etc. - Minibeast hunting
4. Woodland / Meadow
5. Mediterranean
6. Pond

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

When you book for the programme you will receive a booklet that includes a series of differentiated worksheets for each habitat. You then choose how many habitats you would like your children to investigate and which sheets you feel are appropriate to their level and experience and photocopy these for their use. The programme includes an introduction and a member of our staff to support you throughout the day with pond dipping or another activity if you so choose. If you have any particular organisational, learning or curricular needs, please discuss them when you phone to book.

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: KS2 and KS3

Numbers: Up to two classes per day (70 maximum)

Duration: A 20-30 minute taught introduction followed by 30 minutes in each of up to six habitats, i.e. up to a full day.

Organisation: The children need to be organised in up to six small groups, each accompanied by an adult.

Cost: £4.50 per child, adults free (minimum charge £108).

For more information please contact:

Education Officer, University of Leicester Botanic Garden,
Stoughton Drive South, Oadby, Leics. LE2 2NE
Phone/fax: 0116 271 2933
Email: botanicgarden@le.ac.uk