Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to identify and differentiate between different tree species found in Missouri.

Materials and Prep

• Field guide or online resources about trees in Missouri
• Pen and paper for note-taking
• Access to outdoor space with trees

No prior knowledge is required for this lesson.

Activities

1. Start by researching and studying the various tree species found in Missouri using the provided field guide or online resources.

2. Take a walk in the outdoor space with trees and observe the different characteristics of the trees. Look for features such as leaf shape, bark texture, and overall size.

3. Collect fallen leaves, twigs, or small branches from different trees. Examine them closely and compare their similarities and differences.

4. Create a tree identification chart or booklet. Include drawings or descriptions of each tree species and note down their distinctive features.

5. Quiz yourself or a family member by showing them pictures of different trees and asking them to identify the species based on the knowledge gained.

Talking Points

• "Trees are an essential part of our environment and provide numerous benefits such as oxygen production, shade, and habitat for wildlife."
• "Missouri is home to a diverse range of tree species, each with its own unique characteristics."
• "Leaf shape can be a useful clue in identifying trees. Some common leaf shapes include oval, lanceolate, and lobed."
• "Bark texture can vary greatly between tree species. Some have smooth bark, while others have rough or peeling bark."
• "Size is another important characteristic to consider when identifying trees. Pay attention to the overall height and width of the tree."
• "By collecting fallen leaves, twigs, or small branches, we can compare the features and identify the tree species."
• "Creating a tree identification chart or booklet helps us organize and remember the information we gather."
• "Quizzing ourselves or others is a fun way to test our knowledge and reinforce what we have learned about tree identification."