Tree Data: Multi-Digit Addition & Subtraction
25 minutesGrades4Mathematics
About this activity
This activity helps students practice multi-digit arithmetic while learning about the importance of trees. Students use a national tree registry to look up data about trees and use that data to solve multi-digit addition and subtraction problems.
Large, old trees store more carbon than younger trees, provide shade that cools communities, and support wildlife habitat, so protecting big trees becomes even more important as temperatures rise.
Everything you need to teach it
- Tree Circumference: Place Value and Multi-Digit ArithmeticView Activity
Teaching tips
Before completing this activity, students can watch this video to learn about the importance of trees.
Teachers should preview the Champion Tree Registry for their state ahead of time to confirm which tree types have enough entries for problems #2–4 and #6.
This activity can be completed in groups, with the teacher, or as independent practice. It can also be used as a formative assessment.
Teachers can model the first problem for the whole class, projecting the National Register of Champion Trees and walking through the state filter together before students work on their own.
Teachers can point out that circumference is measured in inches while height and crown spread are measured in feet, so students only subtract and add measurements within the same column.
Teachers can define “type of tree” broadly (all oaks, all maples, all pines) so students have enough trees to compare, since many states list only one champion per individual species.
Teachers can extend the comparison standard (4.NBT.A.2) by having students record each largest/smallest pair with >, <, or = before finding the difference.
After completing the activity, invite students to gauge their understanding of the topic by coloring in the stars on the pages. Teacher may ask students additional questions to gauge student understanding and confidence in their skill.
Want this to fit your class?
Add your location for local examples, questions, and action ideas.
About the teacher writer
