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In this outdoor activity, learners saw sections from fallen trees, then count tree rings and look closely at patterns of tree growth. Learners are challenged to find out if the top of a tree is older, younger, or the same age as the bottom. Learners also explore how patterns of tree growth give clues to environmental conditions over the years.
- 10 to 30 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $10 - $20 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 18
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- bow saw (1 per team of two)
- fine-tipped colored marking pens (2 per team of two)
- small pieces of sandpaper, 10 cm x 15 cm (2 per team of two)
- 1 data board and marking pen
- brightly colored push pins
- "Counting Growth Rings" Technique Card (page 5-6 of PDF)
Subjects
-
Life Sciences
-
Diversity of Life
- Plants
-
Ecology
- Ecosystems
-
Diversity of Life
-
Mathematics
-
Measurement
- Size and Scale
-
Measurement
-
The Nature of Science
-
The Scientific Process
- Asking Questions
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
- Formulating Explanations
- Communicating Results
-
The Scientific Process
Informal Categories
- Nature and Environment
- Outdoor Activity
- Physical Activity
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- be mobile
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves teamwork and communication skills
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All rights reserved, The Regents of the University of California, 1982