This unit encapsulates a wide range of biological functions in both plants, animals and other organisms such as fungi. The unit includes guidance on vital processes such as photosynthesis and natural selection, as well as lessons focused on studying and exploring cells.
During the unit, children will learn in more depth about observation using specialist scientific equipment as well as conducting a comparative test.
Shannon started her journey with Developing Experts by completing PHD placement while studying for her Doctorate in Developmental Biology at the University of East Anglia. Shannon has since joined the team full-time as a Project Manager working with the company's industry partners. Shannon knows a lot about chickens!
Lizzie studied pharmacy at the University of East Anglia, graduating with first-class honours. She completed her pharmacy training at Ipswich Hospital and proceeded to practice as a hospital pharmacist. Since then, Lizzie has started a PhD in pharmacology and completed a three-month internship with Developing Experts as part of this.
Lizzie is passionate about increasing the general public’s interest in science, especially amongst those from disadvantaged backgrounds. During her time at Developing Experts, Lizzie produced and filmed several lessons on a broad range of scientific disciplines. She enjoys science communication; particularly sharing knowledge about the link between science and healthcare.
Heather qualified with a first-class honours degree in climate science from the University of East Anglia. Since, she has joined Developing Experts as a writer and presenter, specialising in earth and environmental sciences.
She is also an internationally published science author, having written a series of CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) digital textbooks aimed at improving learners’ understanding of English whilst igniting an interest in science.
Jonathan is a leading science writer and presenter. Having attended military school in the UK, Jon attended the University of East Anglia in the UK, where he gained his BSc in Chemical Physics. Following this, Jon completed his PGCE (Post-graduate Certificate of Education), teaching science and leading physics in large city secondary schools in the UK.
Jon is a passionate scientist and specialises in science communication; delivering CPD workshops, science lectures, shows and community science days.
Maria completed her PGCE at Oxford in 2005 and taught at schools in Oxford and London before taking time out for family and travel. Maria has led INSET for teachers in Ukraine and gained her Scouting Wood Badge in Belgium. Since returning to the UK and the classroom in 2019, Maria has been awarded Chartered Science Teacher status and more recently, Lead Practitioner. She is also on the Editorial Board for School Science Review, the ASE Journal, and currently teaches at The Charter School East Dulwich as KS5 Science Lead.
Mike studied zoology and botany at Durham University and followed this with 3 years of postgraduate study at Bristol University with the Science Research Council.
Mike uses his vast experience to add knowledge and engagement to Developing Experts, particularly within the disciplines of biology and zoology. He has over 20 years TV production experience, including writing and producing nature programmes for the Disney channel and, for a period of time, was Sir David Attenborough’s scientific advisor.
Paul studied English Literature at Nottingham Trent University and gained his PGCE (Post-graduate Certificate of Education) at the University of East Anglia. Following this, Paul had a successful teaching career, leading English across two large secondary schools and then becoming Vice Principal. He has led several schemes in cross-curricular literacy and has also led teaching and learning in a school, overseeing teacher training and development. Paul has also lectured at universities for graduate teachers.
At Developing Experts, Paul oversees the strategic direction of the curriculum and uses his creativity to structure the teaching and learning strategy. He also edits for accuracy in literacy and liaises with translation services to ensure a high-quality end product.
Rebecca studied Psychology at the University of York before working in a variety of roles - in both the UK and internationally - where she assisted individuals with neurodegenerative and developmental conditions. She then completed her science teacher training with the National STEM centre, Royal Society of Chemistry and the Association for Science Education. Rebecca teaches biology and chemistry at Key Stage 4 and general science at Key Stage 3, and has also ran neuroscience and eco clubs at her school.
1. Describe the photosynthesis reaction
2. Explain how plants use glucose
2. Describe the structure of animal cells
3. Explain why plants are important
5. Describe the structure of a leaf