English National Curriculum - Science

Plant diseases and defences

Mission Objectives

Explain how and why ion deficiencies affect plant growth

Describe signs of plant diseases

Classify plant defences as physical, chemical or mechanical

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

vector

an organism that carries and transmits a pathogen to another organism (e.g., aphids spreading plant viruses)

mineral deficiency

a lack of essential nutrients in the soil that a plant needs to grow, such as nitrate for protein synthesis or magnesium for chlorophyll production

defence mechanism

a feature or process that protects the plant from pests, pathogens or herbivores by preventing attack, reducing damage or stopping infection

chlorosis

yellowing of plant leaves due to a lack of chlorophyll, often caused by magnesium deficiency

pathogen

a microorganism that causes disease; there are four main types: bacteria, viruses, fungi and protists

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

Samantha is an accomplished science educator whose current work centres on curriculum design and professional development, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality science education through evidence-informed approaches. She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and has worked as an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and what students need to succeed.

Underpinning this is a strong foundation in applied science built across a range of industry roles. Samantha has held scientific roles at John Smith's Brewery, Yorkshire Water and WasteCare, where she led technical projects, drove operational efficiencies and ensured compliance with industry standards. Across these roles she has first-hand experience of how scientific knowledge translates into measurable outcomes in professional and commercial environments.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket. 

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