What If We All Looked the Same? Science in Year 6

Year 6's science lesson this week was centred all around variation and inheritance, beginning with a thought-provoking question:

“What if all humans looked the same?”

The children were challenged to consider the plus points, minus points and interesting points or questions that might arise if everyone looked identical. This sparked some brilliant discussion and plenty of creative thinking.

Some children suggested that it could have a positive side, as it might reduce certain forms of discrimination based on appearance. However, most of the class agreed that it would be much better if we all looked different. The children recognised that our differences are part of what makes us unique and interesting.

Their questions became increasingly thoughtful as the discussion developed. Oscar wondered:

“Would we all have the same fingerprints?”

This led to another fascinating question from Penelope:

“What does that mean if someone has committed a crime?”

It was fantastic to see the children making connections between what they were learning in science and the world around them.

We then explored the idea that some of our characteristics are inherited from our parents, while others are influenced by our environment and experiences.

The children then had great fun putting their understanding into practice by creating their own aliens and their offspring.

They carefully thought about the unique characteristics of their alien parents before deciding which traits their offspring might inherit. They had to consider which features could be passed on and how the offspring could be similar to, but also different from, their parents.

There were some wonderfully imaginative alien families!

                         

It was brilliant to see Year 6 recognising that variation is what makes individuals unique, while developing a deeper understanding of how both inheritance and the environment can influence the characteristics we have.