LEAF 5-8 Urban Guide Lesson 3: Management Decisions and Biodiversity
Lesson Plans
Grades5, 6, 7, 8Science, Social Studies
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Provided by Wisconsin Center for Environmental Education
What it is
- 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.
Teaching tips
Prerequisites:
- 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.
From the scientist review
This resource from LEAF, Wisconsin’s K-12 Forestry Education Program, is a very well-researched and thought-out lesson plan for 5th - 8th graders about urban forests and biodiversity. The resource includes a lesson plan, activities, and materials for students and the teacher. The resource provides background information and procedures for the lesson. This lesson plan also includes links for additional resources and worksheets for students. This resource is very well-sourced and contains up-to-date information and data. This resource is an engaging addition to a classroom discussion about biodiversity.
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