Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash
Science: Life Science Technology Communication
Investigating Tree Parts
View a tree. Point to its parts and/or say the names of its parts (roots, trunk, branches, twigs, leaves). Collect samples from the tree and investigate using a magnifying glass.Instructions
Get Ready
Gather the following materials. We've linked to our suggested choices, but feel free to substitute!
- A nearby tree
- Magnifying Glass
Practice New Skills
Take a look at a tree. Point to a part (roots, trunk, branches, twigs, leaves) and say its name. Support your tot in identifying tree parts by pointing or talking. Collect small samples that have fallen from the tree. Demonstrate how to look at the samples under a magnifying glass. Encourage your tot to try. Then follow your tot’s lead, and support her play.
Investigate
Describe the steps your tot is taking. Talk about what is happening, and/or why it might be happening. Help your tot make predictions and test ideas.
- Can we find any tree parts on the ground near the tree?
- What part is this? How did it get there? I wonder if other parts of the tree will come off!
- You are collecting some tree parts. Let’s take a closer look with the magnifying glass.
- What does the leaf look like under the magnifying glass? Does it look the same or different than on the tree?
- What else should we look at with the magnifying glass?