A short discussion topic, suitable for upper KS2, linking with the topics plants and living things and habitats. Lichens are made up of two different organisms working together – a fungus and algae (or in some cases, bacteria). The algae use photosynthesis to make simple sugars, feeding the fungus. In return, the fungus provides the perfect home for the algae.
This ten-minute activity, linking to speaking and listening, is ideal for use at the beginning of the day or during transition times, such as after lunch. Pupils will be challenged to guess what the image is by answering the questions shown on the first slide of the PowerPoint. This could be done on the whiteboard or through discussion with a partner. Once pupils have finished, click through to the next slide to reveal the answers. This discussion topic is also suitable for year 4, year 5, year 6, P5, P6 and P7.