| Explore | One of our most interresting findings is that there are many trees around us that have roots showing, We also saw some trees that had dried up leaves which could be due to an illness that the tree has. |
|---|---|
| Research Question | How is root exposure a reflection of how healthy a tree is? |
| Predictions | We predict that the more exposed roots a tree has, the more unhealthy it would be. We believe that this will be the case because the more exposed roots it has, the less likely it is to be able to properly get water and nutrients in the soil. |
| Experimental Design | Control group: Trees with no exposed roots Dependent Variable: Results and details of the health of the tree from the observational study done on the exposed roots Independent Variable: Conducting an observational study on the trees with exposed roots Materials: Notebook Pencil iNaturalist App What variables will we measure and observe?: We will measure and observe the healthiness of a tree by looking at its roots by using the “How to determine if a tree is healthy” and “Signs of a sick tree” that we have written. What variables will we keep constant?: What is being observed will be kept constant The environment in which the tree is living in Experiment: Find an area where there are a decent amount of trees Choose six trees that you will observe (you will test these variables only by observation) 4 trees with exposed roots. 2 trees with no exposed roots. Identify the type of tree by using the iNaturalist app Observe each tree by looking for specific things (Leaf color, branches, fungus, bark with kankers, roots) Record these observations down in your notebook. Compare the trees’ observations and general statements about a healthy/sick tree and decide if it is healthy. How to determine if a tree is healthy: Make sure the leaves have the right color hue for the season Check if the tree has any dead or broken branches Living twigs bend Dead twigs break Strong bark: no loose or peeling bark Signs of a sick tree: Fungal growth on the trunks and roots Soft-feeling roots Branches don’t have leaves or bark on them Fallen branches (for no apparent reason) |
| Investigation Theme | TREE |
| Grade Level | High School Students (Grades 9,10,11,12) |
| Teacher Name | Crystal Davis |
| School Name | California Academy of Mathematics and Science |
| Session | Spring 2021 |