The Root of the Problem (5th)

Science Literacy

5th Grade

Students work together to steer the ship and navigate their way across a map.

Each team has been given one of three tree types (Cedrus Tree, Soapberry Tree, or Populus Tree) to investigate. Each tree has a problem, leading to its demise. Teams need to get to the bottom of what's happening and propose solutions to fix it.

The first text students will read is called Tree Rings. All teams will read the same text but have different trees to apply the text to. Here are the tasks students will be doing based on this new information:

Discuss with your team: What are two things we can learn from tree rings?

Decision: Using the picture of your tree's rings, what does your team need to do to help your tree? Option 1 - Decrease watering
Option 2 - Increase watering (CORRECT FOR ALL) Option 3 - Maintain current watering Option 4 - Water with salt water

One-on-one discussion: Discuss what your team is going to do to help your tree and why with {{studentName}} on the {{teamName}} team.

"What's wrong with your tree? What can be done to solve your tree's problem?"

Each team has been given one of three tree types (Cedrus Tree, Soapberry Tree, or Populus Tree) to investigate. Each tree has a problem, leading to its demise. Teams need to get to the bottom of what's happening and propose solutions to fix it.

All teams received an informational text about Tree Leaves. All teams will read the same text but have different trees to apply the text to. Here are the tasks students will be doing based on this new information:

Discuss with your team: What are three things we can learn from tree leaves?

Decision: Using your tree data, what should your team do to help your tree? (Note: some teams have multiple correct answers) Option 1 - Increase fertilizer (CEDRUS) Option 2 - Apply fungicide (POPULUS) Option 3 - Apply pesticide (SOAPBERRY) Option 4 - Release a flock of ducks (SOAPBERRY, CEDRUS)

"What's wrong with your tree? What can be done to solve your tree's problem?"

Class designs a solution for the prompt, “Make a plan to improve the health of your tree.”

Teacher reviews data with class and checks to see if designs meet the required rubric. Results are then revealed to the class.