Build a tree
Introduction
Build a tree is a fun way to demonstrate how a tree functions.Activity instructions
This activity is suitable for both small and large groups of students (and adults!).
Students are put into smaller groups as the activity progresses and take on a 'part' as listed below. No student should have more than one part.
Part 1: The trunk
2-3 people stand back to back to be the tree trunk – the strength of the tree that holds the branches and leaves upright.
Part 2: The taproots
Students sit on the floor (against the trunk) with their legs facing outwards from the base of the trunk (if you have a large group put students close together, otherwise just use 2-3 and spread them out). The taproots add stability and suck up water that is vital to the trees survival and growth.
Part 3: The lateral roots
Students lie on their backs with their feet against the trunk, growing outwards. They have root hairs (arms and hands) that reach out to suck up water. Students act out this function by waving their arms and hands and making a loud "slurp" noise.
Part 4: The xylem
Students hold hands around the trunk facing inwards. They bring water up the tree from the roots to the tips by squatting with their hands down low, then standing up to bring their hands above their heads. As they do this they make a "wheeeee" noise for the travelling water.
Part 5: The phloem
The last group of students form a circle around the xylem to make the phloem. The phloem carries food from the leaves to different parts around the tree. To act this out students wobble their hands in the air to make food and make a "whooo" noise to emphasise the food being transported around the tree.
Part 6: The bark
The rest of the group forms the bark and fends off those creatures wanting to attack the tree while everybody else continues their actions and noises all at once.
About the resource
Learning outcomes
Students take on the roles of different tree parts and learn how they work.
Curriculum links
Science: Living world |
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Life processes |
Level 1 and 2 Level 3 and 4 |
Health and physical education: Movement concepts and motor skills |
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Movement skills | Level 2 Practice movement skills and demonstrate the ability to link them in order to perform movement sequences. |
Learning levels
- Primary
Topics
- Forests and green spaces
Curriculum learning areas
- Science
- Health and PE