SCOPE OF THE CHAPTER

1.1 Characteristic of the Big Idea

According to the concept of Big Ideas in Science “All life today is directly descended from a universal common ancestor that was a simple one-celled organism. Over countless generations changes resulting from natural diversity within a species lead to the selection of those individuals best suited to survive under certain conditions. Species not able to respond sufficiently to changes in their environment become extinct” (Harlen, 2015).

1.2 Suggested development of the Idea at primary education level (7-11 years old pupils)

Teaching of botany and especially the botanical system is not very popular with pupils. Linking these facts to a common life is a significant addition to its teaching. Medicinal plants are an integral part of our nature. In all parts of the world humankind has always used various plant species for its livelihood, such as spices or herbs, seasonings or in the form of medicine. Over time, human activities caused the loss of plant species, some becoming rare or even subject to a certain degree of protection (see Chapter on Nature Protection). This also changes the way and extent of their use. This chapter introduces the use of common medicinal plants and their roles in everyday life and the use of this theme in school education.