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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.

Lesson plan

Plant & Animal Structures: Form Fits Function

A step-by-step guide to help you teach this lesson.

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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