This activity is perfect for an outdoor learning experience where a class can explore and move while developing their understanding of the water cycle. As students simulate water molecules travelling as precipitation into the tree and back into the atmosphere through transpiration they also learn about the essential water storage capabilities of the soil, roots, trunk and limbs.
Forests are vital to the health of our planet and this resource recognizes the value of every individual tree while encouraging curiosity about the natural world.
This activity supports life science outcomes related to plant growth and changes, characteristics of living things and water in the environment. Students will also renew connections with nature as they interact with a tree and become inquisitive about seasonal changes, tree types and animals that need these woody plants for food and shelter.
The learning experience could easily extend into an action project where students participate in tree conservation. A community awareness campaign could inform others about alternatives to paper products to promote reduced need to cut down trees. A class could also examine city regulations about tree removal and campaign local government to incorporate tree protection into municipal planning. Students could even work with a local gardening organization to plant a small “food forest” of fruit-bearing trees and shrubs on school property.
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