GOALS

The giant sequoia is the most massive living organism on Earth. It is a tree, magnificent in dimension and awe inspiring in its longevity and durability. To stand in the company of such giants is to experience the scale of life.

To a kindergartner the oak on the corner, the pines at the park, and the mulberry trees at school are giants. Systematic investigation of trees will bring students to a better understanding of trees' place at school and in the community, and will provide some solid experiences on the way to understanding all plants.

FOSS EXPECTS STUDENTS TO

• Develop a curiosity and interest in the living things that make up their world.
• Observe and describe the properties of trees and leaves in the schoolyard.
• Compare the similarities and differences of the trees and leaves observed on mini-field trips.
• Help plant and care for a tree temporarily in the classroom, then permanently in the schoolyard.
• Observe trees throughout the school year for changes that come with the different seasons.
• Compare the shapes of leaves to geometric shapes.
• Compare the size and edges of leaves, using a reference card.
• Use pictorial experiences to heighten their awareness of the diversity and variety of trees and leaves.
• Acquire the vocabulary associated with the properties and structures of trees and leaves.

For a description of each investigation in the Trees Module and the correlations to the National Science Education Standards, download the Module Overview PDF.

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