A two-page mind map for Year 2 science on what animals, including humans, need to survive. Five branches each give pupils lines to write on. Four have two prompt questions, such as where creatures find clean water and how animals breathe on land and under water. The fifth branch is for pupils to name, with a hint about rest, warmth, space or companions. Answers are open, so there is no answer key. The sheet is aligned to the England National Curriculum.
Animals, including humans
“Find out about and describe the basic needs of animals, including humans, for survival (water, food and air)”
The water, food and air branches match the three needs in the objective. Shelter and the free branch go beyond it.
Two questions on why bodies need water every day and where animals find it.
Pupils write how food gives energy and what different animals eat.
Questions on why living things take in oxygen and how animals breathe on land and under water.
Pupils note shelters that animals build or choose and how a home keeps them safe from weather.
A blank branch title, with a hint to pick another need such as rest or warmth.
Start of unit
Give pupils ten minutes on the sheet alone, then share answers to the Fresh Air question about breathing under water.
Class pet
If you have a class fish or hamster, look at how its tank or cage gives water, food, air and shelter, then add to the branches.
End of unit
Ask pupils to add new facts in a different colour pen, so you can see what they have learnt since the first go.
Get started today
