Trees

Overview

• In this program we will learn about trees.  

• We will focus on trees as habitats, their ecological importance, and their usefulness for humans. 

Objectives

• To learn about what a tree is, what it requires, how they serve as habitat, and how they differ from other plants in their ecosystem.  

Vocabulary

• Bark

• Phloem

• Xylem

• Cambium

• Sun Leaves

• Shade Leaves

• Habitat

Background

• Trees are pretty ubiquitous in our daily lives. We see trees just about everywhere and do not give them a second thought. We see them in our yards, in our neighborhood parks, and at school. Trees are crucial to our everyday life, more than we realize.  But how much do we really know about them? 

• Do we know what they need to survive? Do we know how they help animals and humans survive? Do we know what trees need to grow, survive, and reproduce future generations? 

• We will talk about how trees are habitats where organisms live and gets all they need to survive. What makes the woodland ecosystem different from other ecosystems and what is the role that trees play in this distinction?

Program Outline

• Students will first spend time walking through the Education Center observing the displays.

• Students will then make their way to the amphitheater for a brief introduction to the activities for the day, review the expectations for the Park and program, and information about the program will be provided.

• We will then go for a hike out to a woodland (the Dune or Orchard) where we can examine all the different types of trees present. 

• We will then find a place where we can sit and have a conversation about trees, their specific characteristics/adaptations, as habitat, and how they influence humans and the environment. 

• Activity: Tree identification