Year 1 Science Block 3 Common Animals

Year 1 Science: Common Animals

Teach common animals Year 1 with a complete unit covering animal groups, structure and diet. Through observation, classification and simple investigations, pupils learn to identify and describe a range of animals, including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.

This unit is part of our Scintillating Science programme and is aligned with the National Curriculum for KS1 science. Pupils build scientific vocabulary and develop early enquiry skills through hands-on tasks such as local environment spotting, bird feeder making and a simple hearing investigation.

View small steps and unit outcomes

Small steps

  • Identifying common animals
  • Comparing mammals
  • Finding animals in the local environment
  • Classifying herbivores, carnivores and omnivores
  • Exploring animal diets and making bird feeders
  • Testing animal ears

Unit outcomes (secure)

Common animals

  • Identify and name a variety of common animals including fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals
  • Describe and compare the structure of a variety of common animals (including pets)
  • Identify and name a variety of common animals that are herbivores, carnivores and omnivores

Working scientifically

  • Observing closely, using simple equipment
  • Performing simple tests
  • Identifying and classifying
  • Gathering and recording data to help in answering questions

Year 1 common animals lesson plans and worksheets

Teach Year 1 common animals with a practical unit focused on identifying and classifying animals, comparing animal structures and learning about animal diets. Part of the Scintillating Science programme and aligned with the KS1 science curriculum, this unit helps pupils build scientific vocabulary and early enquiry skills through observation and investigation.

It’s ideal for teachers searching for Year 1 animals worksheets, animal groups Year 1 resources, or herbivore carnivore omnivore Year 1 activities, with six clearly sequenced lessons designed for real classrooms.

What’s included?

  • Step-by-step planning for every lesson
  • Interactive teaching slides for whole-class input
  • Differentiated Year 1 common animals worksheets
  • Knowledge organisers to support key vocabulary
  • Practical investigations including outdoor spotting and a simple hearing test
  • Assessment opportunities to track pupil progress

Working scientifically in Year 1

  • Observe animals closely and describe what they notice
  • Identify and classify animals into groups
  • Gather simple evidence to answer questions
  • Carry out a simple test and record results

Key learning outcomes

  • Identify and name fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals
  • Describe and compare animal structures (including pets)
  • Sort animals as herbivores, carnivores or omnivores
  • Use scientific vocabulary to explain observations

Why choose our Year 1 common animals unit?

  • Aligned with the National Curriculum for KS1 science
  • Clear progression across six small steps
  • Practical, child-friendly tasks with strong vocabulary support
  • Differentiated worksheets for mixed ability teaching
  • No year group labels on resources, making them suitable for mixed-age KS1

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