Pollination to Plate – Science and Sustainability in the Horticulture Industry (Primary)

Developed through collaboration between Hort Innovation and the Primary Industries Education Foundation Australia (PIEFA), Pollination to Plate – Science and Sustainability in the Horticulture Industry is a three-lesson learning unit designed for Foundation to Year 6 students. Through cross-curricular, differentiated learning activities, students explore the science of pollination and the vital role of pollinators in supporting biodiversity and food production in Australia’s horticulture industry.

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Lesson 1 | The Pollination Station: Making a Pollinated Plate

Students will develop an understanding of the role pollinators play in food production by exploring how animal pollinators help plants produce seeds (and therefore fruit, vegetables, and nuts). Through hands-on matching, sorting, and literacy activities, students will make connections between flowers, pollination, and the foods we eat. They will participate in a taste test to explore the sensory properties of pollinator-reliant foods and apply their learning by designing a healthy meal using ingredients that depend on pollination.

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Lesson 2 | Pollination and Pollinators

Students will investigate the features of pollinators and flowering plants, examining how these features support pollination and plant reproduction, with a focus on the production of fruits, vegetables, and nuts. They will explore the life cycles of both organisms and model the role of pollinators in transferring pollen between flowers. Students will engage in activities to identify challenges affecting pollinator health and learn about solutions to support pollinator populations. To consolidate their learning, students will design an advertising campaign to educate others about the vital relationship between pollinators and horticultural produce, highlighting their essential role in ensuring healthy food systems and sustainable environments.

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Lesson 3 | Pollinators and Food Production 

Students will investigate the role of pollinators in Australian food and fibre production, focusing on how pollination is managed by apiarists and horticultural producers. They will learn about the types of pollinated products that grow across various regions in Australia. Students will examine the tools and strategies used to support successful pollination and learn about real-world video case studies focused on pollination management. They will apply their knowledge to support biodiversity and design pollinator-friendly garden solutions tailored to local environments.

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TEACHER PD WEBINAR

Access the Teacher Professional Development webinar linked to this resource suite here.

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CLASSROOM POSTER

To accompany this resource suite, an engaging educational poster has been designed to consolidate student learning. The Pollinators and Produce | Building a Sustainable Future poster can be printed and displayed around your school to remind students about the pollination process and the important role of pollinators in producing different foods.

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