Virginia SOL 2.8.b
The Standard
plants provide oxygen, homes, and food for many animals
Virginia Standards of Learning for Science
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students explain how animals depend on plants for oxygen, shelter, and food. They connect specific animals with the plants that meet their needs.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student can explain that a squirrel gets oxygen, acorns, and shelter from trees. The student can find similar connections in a forest, pond, or yard picture.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may think only plant-eating animals depend on plants. They may also forget that plants produce oxygen or that nests, tree holes, and branches provide shelter.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Draw an oak tree and a squirrel. Add three labeled arrows showing how the tree provides oxygen, food, and shelter.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Build a shoebox tree habitat with leaves, seeds, and a nest, then label how each part helps an animal.
Write from a squirrel's view, explaining how one oak tree provides oxygen, food, and shelter.
Play a matching game using plant, animal, and need cards, then explain each completed set.
Survey the schoolyard for nests, chewed leaves, seeds, or insects, and record evidence that animals use plants.
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Printable 2.8.b Worksheet
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