Mrs Mactivity
Lesson 4: Using Senses to Observe and Look Closely

Lesson 4: Using Senses to Observe and Look Closely

Reception Science Scheme Reception Science Block 4: Plants and Growth

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Reception senses science lesson – exploring leaves through sight, smell and taste

This Reception senses science lesson helps children investigate plants using sight, smell, touch and, where appropriate, taste. Through hands-on activities with real salad and herb leaves, children discover how scientists use their senses to observe the world around them and identify similarities and differences.

Children explore a variety of edible leaves, comparing their appearance, texture, smell and taste. As they discuss what they notice, they develop descriptive vocabulary, observation skills and confidence in talking about their discoveries.

What is included in this Reception science lesson?

  • Interactive teaching slides exploring the five senses and plant observation
  • Leaf identification challenge using commonly eaten fruits and vegetables
  • Smell and taste investigation using edible salad and herb leaves
  • Food vocabulary support to encourage scientific discussion
  • Salad bowl drawing activity focused on observing leaf shape, size and colour
  • Scented playdough leaf modelling activity
  • Full lesson plan with teaching guidance, vocabulary and assessment opportunities

Using senses to investigate plants in Reception

Scientific observation begins with noticing details. In this lesson, children use their senses to compare different leaves and describe what makes them similar or different. Through smelling, touching, tasting and observing, they build a deeper understanding of plants while developing communication and scientific enquiry skills.

The activities support the Early Years Foundation Stage Understanding the World curriculum by encouraging children to explore natural materials, use descriptive language and make careful observations about living things.

This lesson forms part of our Reception Plants and Growth unit within the EYFS Science Scheme. The unit helps children develop scientific enquiry skills through practical investigations, observation and exploration of the natural world.

This resource is part of the Mrs Mactivity Science Scheme of Work →