Web
Sites We Like
What
Tree is That?
The
National Arbor Day Foundation's Tree Identification Web site helps
student identify tree species throughout the U.S. It features a list
of questions that students can answer – through observation – about
each tree they are trying to identify. It then identifies the type
of tree and provides information about it.
Basics
of Tree ID
This Web site has great photos and clues about how to look at different
tree components – leaves, bark, twigs, and growing habit – to help
learners focus on details as they try to identify trees.
Journey
North Leaf-Out Activities
As students eagerly anticipate spring, have them track its
approach daily via the emergence of tree leaves. This site offers
guidance and associated activities.
Twigs, Scars,
and Winter Buds
This investigation invites students in grades 4 to 6 to be winter
tree detectives. It also features links to some great related kids'
fiction
books, Web sites, and other sources of arboreal inquiries for the
classroom and schoolyard.
The
Ancient Art of Coppicing
Who knew that trees could be so flexible? This site from the U.K. gives a brief
introduction to how trees are coppiced (a form of pruning), and the value of
coppiced woodland to people and wildlife. For an animated step-by-step recreation
of an
British
Iron
Age
house built with coppiced wood, click
here.
Tree
Products from the Gardening with Kids Store
Fandex
Tree Identifier
This colorful Fandex Tree Identifier from the Gardening with Kids store makes
it easy for budding young naturalists to identify 48 North American trees.
One side provides a picture to match with real leaves, and the reverse side
features
information on each tree. (Members save 10%)
Trees
are Terrific! Activity
Guide
From the National Wildlife Federation
Looking for other
classroom activities
involving trees?
This book provides modules in the areas of science,
social studies, geography, history, and creative writing.
(Members save 10%)
