Investigate

Learning journey

1. Describe morphology: examine the visible thallus and record whether it is crust-like, made of flat lobes, or formed of upright branches. Treat these as growth forms, not species names.

2. Examine structures: look for visible discs, powdery areas or small projections. Use a hand lens or a clear photograph; record only features you can see.

3. Compare sites: choose accessible lichen patches on different surfaces at Kew. Record substrate, light exposure and whether the surface appears wet or dry. Do not remove or damage any material.

4. Ask a testable question: for example, “Do we see more lichen patches on the shaded side or the sunny side of these selected trees?” Agree a consistent way to observe before collecting data.

5. Separate evidence from inference: write direct observations first, then state what they may suggest. A photograph may support a provisional identification but may not show enough evidence for a species-level name.

Learning focus

Pupils develop classification, evidence-based reasoning and simple ecological investigation. They should recognise that observed patterns do not by themselves prove what caused them.

Kew fieldwork

Follow Kew staff instructions, stay within permitted areas and leave lichens in place. Photograph whole patches and useful details only where permitted. If identification is uncertain, use a genus-level or provisional description rather than guessing.