⁣⁣Lesson Plan: Exploring the Majestic Old-Growth Forest: Winter Beauty of White Oak Trees

⁣⁣Lesson Plan: Exploring the Majestic Old-Growth Forest: Winter Beauty of White Oak Trees


Grade Level: 6-8

Objective: By the end of this lesson, students will learn about the characteristics of old-growth forests and the significance of white oak trees in the winter season. Students will engage in observation, research, and discussion activities to deepen their understanding of the topic.

Common Core Standards:
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.7.1: Cite several pieces of textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.2.D: Use precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic.
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.1: Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues.

Materials:
- Books or articles about old-growth forests and white oak trees
- Images or videos showcasing old-growth forests and white oak trees in winter
- Paper and pencils
- Art supplies for drawing or coloring activities
- Chart paper or whiteboard for group discussions

Procedure:

1. Introduction (5 minutes):
- Begin the lesson by discussing the concept of old-growth forests and their importance in providing habitat for various species.
- Show images or videos of majestic old-growth forests in winter, focusing on the beauty and significance of white oak trees.

2. Observation Walk (15 minutes):
- Take the students on a virtual or physical observation walk through an old-growth forest, emphasizing the winter features of white oak trees.
- Encourage students to pay attention to the unique characteristics of the white oak trees, such as their branching patterns, bark texture, and leafless appearance in winter.
- Instruct students to make sketches or take notes of their observations during the walk.

3. Research and Note-Taking (20 minutes):
- Provide books or articles about old-growth forests and white oak trees for students to conduct research.
- Instruct students to take notes on the specific adaptations of white oak trees that enable them to survive and thrive in the winter season.
- Encourage students to cite textual evidence from their research to support their understanding.

4. Art Activity: Seasonal Tree Drawing (20 minutes):
- Ask students to choose either an old-growth forest scene or a close-up of a white oak tree in winter as the subject for their drawing.
- Instruct students to pay attention to the details and textures of the tree, capturing the essence of its winter beauty.
- Encourage creativity and attention to detail in their drawings.

5. Group Discussion: Winter Adaptations (15 minutes):
- Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a different winter adaptation of white oak trees to focus on.
- Provide chart paper or a whiteboard for each group to record their discussions.
- Instruct each group to discuss and share their findings about the assigned adaptation, including how it helps white oak trees survive in the winter.
- Encourage students to ask questions, provide examples, and engage in collaborative discussions.

6. Informative Writing (15 minutes):
- Instruct students to individually write a short informative paragraph about the majestic old-growth forest and the winter beauty of white oak trees.
- Encourage students to use the information gathered from their observation walk, research, and group discussions.
- Allow students to share their writing with a partner or small group, providing feedback and discussing the key ideas presented.

Common Core Labels Correlations:
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.7.1
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.6.2.D
- CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.1

Join me for a walking tour through a majestic old-growth forest of White Oak trees in Winter.