This lesson is for : Grade 9: ACA Biology
Summary
Students will choose a tree on campus and identify the type of tree based on its leaves. They will create a leaf rub and will upload the picture to Word to identify the parts of the leaf. Students will then research more about the tree: where it is commonly found, best environment, uses for the tree, etc. Then they will create a Google presentation using their research and leaf identification drawing, which will be shared with other students in the class to peer review. Finally, students will create a QR code for their presentation, which will be placed on the tree for other students, faculty members, or community members to learn more about the tree.
TIPC Ratings
Research & Information Fluency
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: Students conduct research using a variety of digital and print materials including leaf identification reference books, Virginia Tech’s Dichotomous Keys, and 3-5 websites which they have evaluated for reliability during a Librarian presentation. Students also used a spectrometer to analyze leaf pigments during a presentation from the Math Science Innovation Center.
Communication & Collaboration
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: Students work as pairs to identify the tree and complete the leaf rubbing. They also collaboratively create the Google Presentation of their research. Additionally, the presentations are peer reviewed using a Google Form. Finally, the students create QR codes to place on the trees extending beyond the classroom and for all community members to benefit.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Rating: Approaching – Explanation: The students had to research about the tree to determine where it is commonly found, best environment, uses for the tree, etc. They also had to identify the key parts of the leaf while transitioning from a leaf rub into an electronic format. Additionally, they had to use trigonometry to estimate the height of the tree to determine the type of tree. Students reflected as part of the peer review of the presentations.
Creativity & Innovation
Rating: Approaching – Explanation: The students created both using a hands-on method with the leaf rub as well as a Google Presentation and QR code. The QR codes were an innovative way to share information about the trees with other students, faculty members, and community members.
Student Artifact
Lesson Materials
