Ages:  9-13
Time: 9:30-10:25
Room: Room B
Max. Students: 9

Trees work not as individuals but as a collective community. They provide a wonderful model of cooperation and reciprocity. If we want a sustainable community, we can begin by looking at the trees. In this class, students will learn more about the tree community near NLLC, consider trees from different perspectives, and understand how we, as humans, can be better stewards of the trees. I hope to also connect with the City Forester or other person caring for trees in our community during or outside class time. Finally, we consider the question, Who speaks for the trees? I hope the answer will be US! Students will use persuasive and informational writing skills (such as writing to the Ithaca Times or the mayor, an info label to hang from a tree, or a brochure) to educate and/or advocate for the trees in our community. Students need to be fluent readers and write a paragraph or two for this class. I will provide instruction and support for writing, such as graphic organizers. Many of these lessons are part of my research and I will be taking pictures.

Students need to be fluent readers and write a paragraph or two for this class. Students should be able to follow directions especially when we go outside! Parents and (quietly self engaged) siblings are welcome to stay in the room but are not required to stay.

Class leader: Rachel T.