Lesson Plan

Rings of Life

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This Rings of Life lesson plan also includes:

Individuals analyze tree rings to determine the health of an ecosystem. They then look at otoliths of fish, hard calcium carbonate structures located behind the brain, in the same manner. 

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Activity fits into a unit on ecology
Classroom Considerations
  • Needs include access to ponderosa pine or other indigenous trees, increment bores, and otoliths from fish
  • Activity includes inviting a speaker to discuss tree rings
  • Resource is appropriate for elementary or middle school learners
Pros
  • Analyzing growth rings in the otoliths of fish is engaging and interesting
  • Activity provides a worksheet 
Cons
  • None
Common Core