Four teddy bears sitting on a picnic mat representing the needs of living things student learning resource.

The needs of living things | Science student learning resource | Field of Mars EEC

Resource overview

The needs of living things is an Early Stage 1 science learning resource from Field of Mars Environmental Education Centre that introduces what plants and animals need to survive—air, water, food and shelter. Using short videos, hands-on investigations, nature walks and creative tasks, students observe living things locally and describe how their needs are met.

Learning intention

Students learning about the basic needs of people.

Lesson 1 - The needs of people

Students learn about the basic needs of people – food, water, air and shelter – and explore everyday examples of how we meet these needs at home and outdoors.

A Lyrebird looking for food in a bushland environment.

Lesson 2 - The needs of animals

Students investigate what animals need to stay alive and examine how different habitats provide food, water, air and shelter.

Students learning about the needs of plants.

Lesson 3 - The needs of plants

Students explore what plants require to survive, using observation and simple checklists to identify whether plants in their environment are getting their needs met.

Students planning a teddy bears picnic.

Lesson 4 - Going on a teddy bears picnic

Students plan and enjoy a teddy bears’ picnic, identifying the needs of people and practising mindfulness and self-care as part of staying healthy and safe.

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Learning resources

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