Tree rings are slightly thicker on the south side of the tree because it receives more sunlight. Part two in a series of five lessons helps learners analyze tree rings to determine the environmental conditions that caused size differences in the rings. After writing a hypothesis, groups analyze data and build an argument to support their thoughts and findings. 

Concepts

tree rings, data analysis, temperature changes

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Most groups will know that tree ring differences are directly proportional to precipitation; to move beyond this, incorporate the extension ideas included at the end of the lesson

Classroom Considerations

• To complete the lab, teachers need tree cookies or cross sections of trees in order to analyze the rings; you can purchase these at the included link
• The lesson takes three to five class periods; if teachers do some prep work (downloading data, keeping presentations short, assigning portion of lesson as homework, etc.), it will cut the time needed

Pros

• Lesson provides background information for teachers and pupils
• Individual worksheets, directions, and an answer key are located near the end of the lesson

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.9-10.7