Activity ObjectivesChildren will be able to describe and start to identify some common tree species in the winter when there are fewer/ no leaves on the trees.

ResourcesWinter Tree ID sheet (scroll down)

Activity OutlineThe accurate identification of the species is not necessarily important, however children often find it rewarding to know the names of species they see. The ability to describe and compare different species throughout all seasons is an important part of understanding the world we live in. By looking closely at other parts of a tree than just its leaves, such as the bark, branches and buds, this can help to improve their wider observation and identification skills.

Questions to extend learningCan you describe the similarities and differences between the different trees and leaves you see?Can you tell which trees are evergreen or deciduous? Can you tell what season it is by looking at the tree?Can you name the different parts of the tree?Can you describe what the bark of the tree trunk looks and feels like? What colours does it have in it?Can you describe what the branches, twigs and buds look like? What colour are the buds?Are there any trees similar to this one nearby?Do you think the tree is young or old? Why? Can you explain the life cycle of this tree?How does this tree disperse its seeds?Can you see any clues of creatures living in the tree?Do you think the tree is healthy? How can you tell? Can you identify the tree using the Winter Tree ID sheet? Or, is it a different species?

Curriculum LinksEYFSPSED: Choose resources they need for chosen activities.C&L: Can follow instructions involving several ideas or actions.PD: Moves confidently in a range of ways, safely negotiating space.L: Can read some irregular common words.M: Uses everyday language to talk about size, shape and position.UW: Talks about features of their immediate environment; Makes observations of plants.EAD: Safely use and explore a variety of materials, tools and techniques.

National CurriculumScience: (Y1) Observe changes across the four seasons; Identify and name a variety of common wild and garden plants, including deciduous and evergreen trees; Identify and describe the basic structure of a variety of common flowering plants, including trees. (Y2) Observe and describe how seeds and bulbs grow into mature plants; Find out and describe how plants need water, light and a suitable temperature to grow and stay healthy; Identify that most living things live in habitats to which they are suited and describe how different habitats provide for the basic needs of different kinds of animals and plants, and how they depend on each other. (Y3) Identify and describe the functions of different parts of flowering plants; Explore the requirements of plants for life and growth and how they vary from plant to plant; Investigate the way in which water is transported within plants; Explore the part that flowers play in the life cycle of flowering plants, including pollination, seed formation and seed dispersal (Y4) Recognise that living things can be grouped in a variety of ways; Explore and use classification keys to help group, identify and name a variety of living things in their local and wider environment; Recognise that environments can change and that this can sometimes pose dangers to living things; Construct and interpret a variety of food chains, identifying producers, predators and prey; Observing closely, using simple equipment; (Y5) Describe the life process of reproduction in some plants; (Y6) Describe how living things are classified into broad groups according to common observable characteristics and based on similarities and differences, including micro-organisms, plants and animals; Give reasons for classifying plants and animals based on specific characteristics. (KS1 SE) Identifying and classifying; Gathering and recording data to help in answering questions. (LKS2 SE) Using results to draw simple conclusions, make predictions for new values, suggest improvements and raise further questions. (UKS2 SE) Recording data and results of increasing complexity using scientific diagrams and labels, classification keys, tables, scatter graphs, bar and line graphs.

EXTENDED LEARNINGACTIVITIES

Winter Tree ID

SPECIESIDENTIFICATION

www.outdoorlearningmadeeasy.co.uk ©

EXTENDED LEARNINGACTIVITIES

SPECIESIDENTIFICATION

Winter Tree ID

www.outdoorlearningmadeeasy.co.uk ©

Cherry

It is more difficult to identify tree species during the Winter

as their leaves have fallen. You could look at the leaves underneath the tree, but if you look closely at the bark and buds, it can help.

Lime

Sycamore Oak

Willow

Can you tell which trees are evergreen or deciduous? Can you spot any

other trees bark’s not listed here?

Elder