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Life Science · Structure & Function

Plant & Animal Structures: Form Fits Function

Use diagrams and evidence to explain how internal and external structures help plants and animals survive, grow, behave, and reproduce.

Teacher workspace

Start with the lesson plan.

50 min~10 min prep5 materialsNGSS verified · 4-LS1-1

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Lesson overview

What students will learn

  • I can explain how a plant or animal structure supports a specific function.
  • I can use evidence to connect structure → function → organism outcome.

Key science ideas

  • Roots take in water from the soil and help hold a plant in place.
  • Leaves help a plant collect light.
  • Lungs help many land animals take in oxygen from air.

Lesson at a glance

  • Grade 4
  • 50 min
  • ~10 min prep
  • 4-LS1-1
  • 5 materials

What’s included

  • Lesson Plan
  • Investigation
  • Teacher Slides
  • Printable Worksheet
  • Teacher Answer Key
  • Interactive Activity
  • Vocabulary