KS2 Medicinal plants and the science of Kew
Do you feel nauseous, have a headache, or need to get rid of a verruca? Then explore the wide range plants at Kew that have medicinal properties.
Level
Key Stage 2
Duration
45 minutes
Allocated space
15 pupils per group
Recommended dates
Please note, this session may be adapted during the winter months
Overview
Come and visit the 'Plant Doctor' at Kew. Go on a magnificent medicinal plant journey through time and explore what the term 'medicine' means to people from different cultures.
- This session is best suited for upper key stage 2 pupils, due to the concepts explored and language included.
- This session is delivered outside in the Gardens.
Learning outcomes
Pupils will be able to:
- Recognise and name plants (UK and worldwide) which have medicinal properties.
- Explain the importance of medicinal plants and the need to conserve them.
- Describe how medicinal plants are used in our everyday life.
- Discover the research that Kew scientists are carrying out linked with medicinal plants.
We will ensure the learning outcomes focus on the year group taking part.
Curriculum links
Science
Year 6 – Animals including humans
- Recognise the impact of drugs on the way their bodies function.
Working scientifically
- Planning different types of scientific enquiries to answer questions.
- Reporting and presenting findings from enquiries, including conclusions.
- Identifying scientific evidence that has been used to support or refute ideas or arguments.
English
- Use spoken language to develop understanding through speculating, hypothesising, imagining and exploring ideas.
Example keywords: medicinal, drugs, health, herbal.
