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Fall Slumbers
Lesson Plan


Summary: Students observe changes in a selected tree leaf near their homes during the fall. Twice each week students record changes in the leaf using words, pictures, and numbers. Observations continue for a period of three or more weeks. Activities in the classroom will emphasize tree adaptation for winter survival. The Family Page extends this learning to the community by inviting parents to facilitate home observations and discussion related to seasonal plant adaptations.

Note: This inquiry will require a minimal classroom time commitment and will therefore be implemented in the midst of other classroom science activities. Begin this activity on or before October 15th.

Indicates special instructions/modifications for primary classrooms.


Week 1, Day 1: Introduction / Begin Home Inquiry (45 min.)

Read through the lesson, but use the Fall Slumbers--Seasonal Changes primary packet (see Ready to Print.) in lieu of the pages below. For primary teachers this activity will take place at school (rather than as a home activity). The class will identify a leaf to observe together and complete observations twice each week for three weeks. See Put It All Together at the end of this lesson for additional instructions.

Ready...

Get Set...

Go!!!

Week 1, Day 3: Check Home Observations (20 min.)

Week 2: Check Home Observations (20 min.)

Week 3: Check Home Observations (20 min.)

Week 4, Day 1: Check Home Observations and Final Project (45 min.)

Get Ready...

Get Set...

Go!!!


Week 4, Day 2: PutItAllTogether (45 min.)

Read Why Do Leaves Change Color and Summarize the Main Points. Use the Fall Slumbers--Seasonal Changes primary packet as an Evaluation tool.


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