Tree Tree
Objectives
- Students will have a basic understanding of how trees can be classified.
- Students will be able to identify characteristics of trees.
- Students will have completed a graphic organizer detailing how trees can be organized (with examples).
EALRS
- Science 1.1
- Understand how properties are used identify, describe, and categorize objects.
Background
Trees, like people, have characteristics that allow them to be classified in many ways. You can use size, age, seed location, leaf type, and leaf cycle to begin to differentiate trees. Review with students what they have already learned about trees, and the importance of classifying them.
Materials
- Tree Tree (graphic organizer)
Procedure
- Ask students to brainstorm or free write (depending on age/ability) the purpose and importance of classifying organisms. This can be a whole class, in small groups, or as an individual activity. If done individually or in small groups, bring students together as a whole group to discuss their thoughts.
- Ask students what makes a Douglas-fir different from a Bigleaf maple, or what makes a tree in the understory different from one in the canopy. Tell them these differences are ways to classify trees.
- Have students work individually or in pairs to complete the Tree Tree. Students list different properties of trees and examples of those properties. One example is filled in for them. They can add lines if needed.
- Discuss the properties they come up with, and how they help to classify trees.
Extension
- Discuss animal classification by introducing the animal kingdom.