Cambridge Primary Stage 5 Science Notes – Ecosystems
Biology – Life Processes
1-Stage-5-science-biology-notes-life-processes
5Bp.01 – Animals (including humans) need an adequate, balanced diet
What is a balanced diet?
A balanced diet contains the right amounts of all the nutrients the body needs for energy, growth, repair, and health.
Nutrients and Their Functions
Table: Main Nutrient Groups
Nutrient | Examples | Function in the Body |
Carbohydrates | Bread, rice, pasta | Main energy source |
Proteins | Meat, fish, beans | Growth and repair of tissues |
Fats | Oils, butter, nuts | Energy store, insulation, carry vitamins |
Vitamins | Fruits, vegetables | Keep the body functioning well; support immunity |
Minerals | Iron, calcium | Strong bones/teeth, healthy blood |
Fibre | Whole grains, vegetables | Helps digestion |
Water | Drinking water, soups, fruits | Hydration, transport of nutrients, removal of waste |
Why animals need a balanced diet
To grow properly
To have enough energy
To keep organs healthy
For strong bones and muscles
To prevent illness and maintain a strong immune system
5Bp.02 – Stages in the life cycle of a flowering plant
Plant Life Cycle Summary Table
Stage | What Happens? |
Seed | Contains embryo and food store |
Germination | Seed begins to grow; root and shoot appear |
Seedling | Young plant grows leaves and roots |
Adult Plant | Plant matures and produces flowers |
Pollination | Transfer of pollen to stigma |
Fertilisation | Pollen joins with ovule to form a seed |
Fruit & Seed Formation | Seeds develop; fruit may form around them |
Seed Dispersal | Seeds spread to new places to grow |
This cycle then repeats.
5Bp.03 – How flowering plants reproduce
Pollination
Pollen from the anther (male part) is transferred to the stigma (female part).
Can happen by:
Insects (bees, butterflies)
Wind
Water
Animals carrying pollen on fur
Fertilisation
After pollen lands on the stigma, it grows a tube to the ovule.
The pollen joins with the ovule → a seed is formed.
Fruit and Seed Production
The ovary becomes a fruit.
The ovules become seeds inside the fruit.
Seed Dispersal Methods
Table: Seed Dispersal Types
Method | How it works | Examples |
Wind | Seeds are light or have wings | Dandelion, sycamore |
Animals | Eaten & passed out, or stick to fur | Berries, burdock |
Water | Seeds float and travel by water | Coconut |
Explosion | Pods burst open and scatter seeds | Pea pods, balsam |
5Bp.04 – Seed Germination & What Seeds Need
What is germination?
Germination is when a seed starts to grow into a new plant.
Stages of Germination
Seed absorbs water and swells
Seed coat splits open
Root (radicle) grows downward
Shoot grows upward
Leaves appear and plant begins photosynthesis
Conditions Seeds Need to Germinate
Requirement | Why It Is Needed |
Water | Activates enzymes; allows embryo to grow |
Oxygen | For respiration (energy release) |
Suitable Temperature | Helps reactions; not too hot or cold |