Flora Focus
Overview
Overview
Keywords: changes of state, climate change, deforestation, energy, erosion, evaporation, evapotranspiration, floods, landslides, microclimate, soil, states of matter, temperature rise, temperature, transpiration, trees, water
Subjects: science, geography, social studies
Age group: 5-12 years old
Difficulty level: ● ○ ○ (easy)
Authors: Rute Oliveira (PT), Anastasia Papakonstantinou (GR)
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About this topic
The experiments on the topic "Flora Focus" revolve around the question why trees are so important. They address crucial issues related to the preservation of the environment and the balance of ecosystems.
Through easy and fun activities, children are introduced to the scientific phenomena of erosion, microclimate, and evapotranspiration.
You can use the introductory story "Lilu's big vacation experience" to introduce your students to the topics of nature and sustainability.
This short story leads to the individual experiments on the topic of plants.
Lilu loved walking in the countryside, enjoying the green of the trees and the fresh smell of the earth after it had rained. One day, Lilu went for a walk in the forest where they used to have picnics when he was little. But something felt different. There were fewer trees, the air was warmer, and the ground was very dry. “This place used to feel so full of life,” Lilu thought.
Just then, a gentle breeze carried the voice of a wise old tree nearby. “We trees help the land stay strong and healthy,” said the tree. Lilu asked, surprised: “Why is that?”
“Well,” said the tree, ”Think about it! Think about the difference in the forest ground when we trees are still around and what the ground would look like when we're gone.”
“Well,” said the tree, ”Think about it! Have you ever noticed a difference when you've been in the shade of an umbrella or the shade of a tree on a hot day? Let's investigate with an experiment.”
Lilu was impressed. He would never have thought that one shadow could be cooler than the other. Now, he wanted to find out more about why this is the case.
Trees and Floods
Deforestation is a worldwide problem. This experiment shows that vegetation is a natural barrier that protects the soil surface against erosion caused by the direct impact of rain. Through this experiment, students will have a greater understanding of the importance of plants in the soil to prevent floods and landslides.
Can Trees Affect the Microclimate of an Area?
Climate change is a global phenomenon, as the temperature on our planet is rising. This experimental activity shows how trees can help an area stay cooler. Children learn how to use thermometers, take data and compare results.
How do Plants Cool our Air?
Planet Earth is undergoing significant changes in its climate due to human activities. In this experiment, we explore the significant connection between vegetation and climate. The video shows how transpiration occurs in plants and how water helps cool down the air around them.
About the authors of this unit
Main responsible persons:
Rute Oliveira (PT)
- How do Plants Cool our Air?
Anastasia Papakonstantinou (GR)
- Trees and Floods
- Can Trees Affect the Microclimate of an Area?
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