Discover

Learning journey

1. Notice: find lichens on an accessible tree, stone or clear photograph. Describe colours and shapes.

2. Look closely: use a hand lens to spot edges, lobes or discs. Draw one feature you can see.

3. Record: make a simple picture and note the date and where the lichen was growing.

4. Share: explain one thing you noticed and one question you still have.

Pupils practise careful observation, comparison and recording. They learn that a lichen grows on a surface without making that surface alive.

Fieldwork: stay with the group, follow Kew staff instructions, and leave lichens and their surfaces undisturbed. An adult should select a safe, accessible example or provide a photograph.

Knowledge check

Complete the KEW LICHENS Discover quiz below. Pupils may answer the open questions by speaking, drawing or writing with teacher support.