Tree Research
Provided by: Green Schoolyards America|Published on: February 25, 2026|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Type: Activity - Classroom
Subjects: Science, Social Studies
Authors: Green Schoolyards America
Location: Earth, North America > United States > California
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This educator resource from Green Schoolyards America provides step-by-step instructions for a student tree species research assignment, including how to assign species, choose research topics, conduct research, and present findings.
- The resource includes suggested research questions for science and social sciences (e.g., habitat benefits, adaptations, cultural uses, and geographic distribution) plus recommended websites and books to support student research.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- Students will enjoy going outside to learn about the trees around them. Researching trees in their region will help students connect with nature.
- After researching trees, students will select a tree species and present a proposal to the administration. This gives students an authentic purpose for learning and will promote buy-in, both for the research and for any eventual tree-planting project.
Prerequisites
- It may benefit students to know the difference between native and non-native species.
- Teachers may want to communicate with administrative staff and school board members about a school forest initiative if they will be pursuing this as part of the activity.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Students who have individual devices and a good internet connection on school grounds can use this virtual guidebook to identify trees on the grounds. Alternatively, students can check out field guides from a public or school library.
- Teachers can explain how trees are carbon sinks and that planting trees is a climate solution. This article can help explain this concept.
- Some students may benefit from working with a partner to research their tree and construct their proposal.
- Teachers can make connections to public speaking by having students present their tree proposals to the class. Students can also create media, such as a Google Slides presentation.
This resource tasks students with researching a tree species. Focus is placed on native trees. Physical and social sciences are blended to help students gain a full understanding of the ecosystem services provided by trees, with concentration on climate adaptation and carbon sequestration found at the linked California Tree Palette site. This resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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