Question bank: Characteristics of Plants and Animals

In the school garden, 2nd grade students carry out an activity to observe the plants and animals that cohabit the space. After recording their observations, the teacher explains that, despite living in the same place, plants and animals have very different characteristics. She emphasizes that plants are autotrophic living beings, meaning they produce their own food, and that animals are heterotrophic living beings, depending on other organisms to feed. Furthermore, she mentions that both plants and animals are composed of cells, but with different structures and functions. Based on what was observed in the garden and the information presented by the teacher, how would you identify an organism observed as a plant in contrast to an organism observed as an animal, considering their physical characteristics and modes of obtaining food, and what do the two types of organisms have in common?

You must have noticed that plants and animals are different, but they can also have some things in common. Plants, for example, do not walk like most animals, but they also need water and air to live, just like us and animals. On the other hand, animals can breathe in different ways, but both they and plants need food to grow. Think a little and tell me: what are the characteristics that make a plant a plant and an animal an animal? And what do these two living beings have in common to survive?

Imagine you are a scientist exploring a new forest. You have encountered a creature that appears to be half plant and half animal. Describe the physical characteristics you would use to determine if this creature is more plant or animal. Additionally, explain what are the common characteristics between plants and animals and how they appear in this creature. Remember to use your creativity!

Imagine you are in a very special place, an enchanted garden. In this garden, you find a tree and a little bunny. Looking at the tree and the bunny, you can see that they are different, but they can also find some things that are similar. Think carefully and write down what are the differences and similarities between the tree and the bunny, and why you think each one is important in the enchanted garden.

Imagine you are a scientist and you will observe two very special things in a park: a plant and an animal. Think carefully and describe three characteristics that only the plant has, three characteristics that only the animal has, and finally, two things that both the plant and the animal have in common. Remember to explain why you chose each characteristic and what they mean. With your observations, tell us scientifically what you have learned about the differences and similarities between plants and animals.