In this lesson, Wisconsin students learn about urban forest management, the impact of biodiversity in urban forests, and the importance of urban forests as a climate change solution.
In Activity 1, students participate in a class discussion to define urban forest management.
In Activity 2, students map and analyze data from an urban forest by going outside to conduct a tree survey, using an online mapping tool, or using a worksheet and mock tree survey.
This lesson is the third of four in the LEAF Urban Forest Lesson Guide 5th-8th Grade Unit. The first lesson introduces Urban Forests, and the second lesson explores their benefits.
If skipping the first two lessons, teachers must explain Urban Forests before beginning.
Differentiation:
There are three options for Activity 1 to accommodate different classroom situations. The first option allows students to collect data outdoors, the second option uses an interactive web-based tool to collect data, and the third option is a worksheet with provided data that classes can use if time is limited.
Interdisciplinary Connections:
Math:
Make connections in the calculations part of Activity 1
English Language Arts:
Emphasize concepts of writing in the writing portion of the conclusion.
Extensions:
If desired, move on to Lesson 4 of the LEAF Urban Forest Lesson Guide 5th-8th Grade Unit to research various groups that manage urban forests.
Extend this lesson with the idea that, in addition to urban forests, all Wisconsin forests are a climate solution. The LEAF website has more lessons teachers can use individually or as a unit to help students understand forestry in Wisconsin.
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