Reception Science Mini Scientists Lesson 6 – How Science Helps Animals to Hide
This final lesson in our Reception science unit on Mini Scientists helps children explore how science supports animals in the wild, particularly through camouflage and sensing danger.
Using real-world examples and outdoor learning, children take part in practical investigations where they camouflage a teddy bear, hunt for hidden pasta, and practise moving quietly in a hearing challenge. They explore how animals stay hidden and undetected, and keep a simple record to see which colours blend in best.
What’s included in this lesson?
- Interactive slides exploring camouflage and animal survival
- Teddy bear camouflage activity using natural and craft materials
- Sound detection game using blindfolds and movement
- Outdoor pasta hunt to test colour visibility
- Optional outdoor art and animal hunt for continuous provision
- Lesson plan with full teacher guidance and assessment questions
Scientific focus
This lesson supports the skills of using senses to observe and look closely and performing simple tests. Pupils use hearing and sight to notice how camouflage works in nature, and compare which colours are easiest or hardest to spot.
EYFS links
- Understanding the World: Exploring how animals survive and adapt to their environments
- Communication and Language: Using scientific vocabulary like camouflage and senses
- Physical Development: Outdoor movement, exploration and careful observation
- PSED: Working in teams, following rules, and sharing discoveries
This is the final lesson in our Mini Scientists science unit for Reception, encouraging children to think scientifically and explore the world through purposeful play and discovery.
