Investigating Trees
Summary
In this investigation, students will record an observation (drawing) of a tree in their science notebook. Following the observation, students will discuss what they observed and a list will be created by the classroom teacher. Based on the list students (with guidance) will develop investigable questions. Next, one or two class generated questions will be used to design an investigation. Following the investigations, students will share what they have learned based on the evidence they have discovered.
[image right border]
Collapse
Learning Goals
This activity is designed for students to use observations to develop a correct description of a tree and its parts. The activity will introduce the process of inquiry. Students will develop skills in questioning, oral presentation, brainstorming, and observation.
Context for Use
This activity is a field exercise using our school forest. It is designed for Kindergarten students that have already had some experience exploring the school forest. Special consideration of time is needed based on the distance to travel to the forest. Total time for this investigation will depend on the student developed question. The observation in the forest is 30-40 minutes. Students should already be familiar with the use of their science notebook. If a school forest is not available this activity could easily be adapted to a tree located on your school grounds.
Description and Teaching Materials
Students will begin this activity with a trip to the school forest. They will find a tree to observe. When students have selected a tree with in specified boundaries, they will be given two minutes to observe the tree. After the two minutes, students will be given additional time to draw the tree in their science notebook with opportunities to dictate words to add to their drawing. Following the observations, students will come together and discuss what they have discovered while the classroom teacher records the observation on a poster board. Students will then return to the classroom. Further discussion will take place with students developing questions that they may have about the trees. The classroom teacher will record these questions. Based on one or two of the students question, an investigable question will be chosen. A clear plan to investigate the question will be developed by students input and teacher guidance. The investigation will be carried out. Following the investigation, Students will use the evidence and results to share what was learned. Based on the conclusions of this investigation, students will develop new investigable questions.
Students will have experience writing in their science notebook. The investigation plan and procedure will be added into the notebook with help from the classroom teacher. Students will also be familiar with the school forest.
Materials needed: Science notebooks, pencils, poster board, markers, and access to at least one tree.
This activity is adapted from the FOSS Kit, Trees, Kindergarten Investigation 1, Fall Trees.
Students will have experience writing in their science notebook. The investigation plan and procedure will be added into the notebook with help from the classroom teacher. Students will also be familiar with the school forest.
Materials needed: Science notebooks, pencils, poster board, markers, and access to at least one tree.
This activity is adapted from the FOSS Kit, Trees, Kindergarten Investigation 1, Fall Trees.
Teaching Notes and Tips
It is a good idea to have a few questions in mind to add to the list if students are not able to think of many. It is also helpful to practice asking questions and be sure your students are able to distinguish between questions and comments. Giving students question starters such as How does a tree... or Why does a tree..... might be helpful.
This activity is different than what I have done in the past because of the student generated questions that will be used for the investigation.
This activity is different than what I have done in the past because of the student generated questions that will be used for the investigation.
Assessment
Science notebooks will be used as the assessment. Students will be expected to add the key ideas in their notebook by using drawings and dictation. They will also be able to verbally tell what they have learned.
Standards
0.1.1.2.1- Scientific Inquiry
0.4.1.1.2-Structure in Living System
0.4.1.1.2-Structure in Living System