Materials Needed: 

  • Yarn, rope or fabric to tie help identify your tree 
  • Tree Observation Journal – Download here 
  • For Pre-K-1
  • For Grades 2-6
  • Clipboard 
  • Pencils 
  • Colored Pencils or Crayons 

Objective: Closely observe a chosen tree over twice a week over a five-week period.  

Connected Reading Activity: If you are able to get these books, we recommend: A Tree is a Plant by Clyde Robert Bulla and for older children Tell me, Tree by Gail Gibbons. 

 

Lesson Plan: 

Day One: 

  • Take a walk and ask your child about the differences in the trees they see. 
      • Are they different colors? 
      • Are some taller than others? 
      • What does the bark look like? 
      • What’s under the tree? 
  • Ask your child to pick a tree.  Note: to remember their tree, have your child write about it, draw a picture, take a photo, or ‘drop a pin.’
  •  Have your child complete the cover of their Tree Observation Journal and entry number one.  

Day Two-Ten: 

  • Visit your child’s tree at least two times per week over the next five weeks.  Encourage them to sit quietly and observe their tree for at least five minutes (set a timer) before beginning their entry.