Animal adaptation through modelling

Adaptation can be defined as any feature of the body or behaviour or an organism which fits it for its environment and helps it to survive (Wenham, 1995). This concept forms part of the science National Curriculum for England at the primary level, being introduced through Life processes and living things at key stage 1 when children should be taught to 'identify)' similarities and differences between local environments and the ways in which these affect animals and plants that are found there'. This is developed further at key stage 2 when children are taught about the plants and animals found in different habitats and how plants and animals in two particular habitats are suited to their environment. In order to achieve level 3 in attainment target 2, children are expected to 'identify ways in which an animal is suited to its environment (for example, a fish having fins to help it swim)'.