3rd Grade Tree Mapping Project

Since September, students in 3rd grade have been working hard to map many of the trees on the Pulpit Green with help from Ms. Zapreva, STEAM Coordinator and Science/Tech Teacher. This morning, they had the opportunity to share what they have created and learned with families outside on the Pulpit Green. Students broke off into groups, and each group focused on a different type of tree of their choosing. Families could scan a QR code upon arrival and follow along as the groups shared all they have learned in their months-long project. The QR code links to a map of the location of each tree in the Pulpit Green, as well as slides about each tree and descriptions of their bark and trunks, leaves, fruits and seeds, and more.

Third graders took to the project—falling under many subjects in the STEAM curriculum—quickly when they began work in September, gradually delving deeper into the many details of our on-campus environment. Throughout the process, students have learned about different types of trees, taken measurements of the trees and leaves, created detailed observational drawings, and designed their own Google Slide presentations.

It was a dynamic exercise in place-based learning, which Ms. Zapreva describes as “Going to the same place and looking at the same thing over and over again. By going to the same place, you gain a deeper understanding of what it is.” Place-based learning emphasizes hands-on experiences and uses the local community and environment to aid in teaching concepts about a variety of subjects. The 3rd grade will continue this practice throughout the school year and continue to examine their trees as they begin to bloom in the spring and grow leaves as summer approaches.
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