Activity: Schools Tree Day – dirtgirl shows us how to plant!

Quick summary: Each year, thousands people across Australia take part in Schools Tree Day. This activity is designed to helps students learn about how to plant, and care for the seedlings they grow during Schools Tree Day.

Schools Tree Day 2016 is on Friday 29th July, although events can be held at any time during the year. To take part you don’t have to be planting trees, you could be growing a vegetable garden, weeding a previously planted area, adding shrubs to the building surrounds or venturing out to the local bush to lend community groups a helping hand.

So get growing! Take part in the largest nature-care event in Australian schools. You’ll be joining thousands of amazing educators in making a difference, fostering a child’s love of nature and creating positive environmental change. Don’t forget to register at treeday.planetark.org.

For more extensive dirtgirl resources check out the website. The dirtgirlworld App is jam-packed with interactive fun things to make you want to get outside and get grubby! 

Learning goals:

• Students understand that trees are living things.
• Students understand that seeds have a growth cycle from seed to tree.
• Students understand how to plant and care for a tree.
• Students take responsibility for their local environment. 

General capabilities: Critical and creative thinking.

Cross-curriculum priority: Sustainability OI.2., OI.7.

Australian Curriculum content description: As this activity is intended to adapt for a range of year levels, no explicit links have been provided.

Topic: Schools Tree Day, Biodiversity.

Year levels: Early Learning – Year 4.

Time required: 60 mins

Level of teacher scaffolding: Facilitate students in sharing their ideas about planting trees.

Resources required: Internet access, computers, seeds or seedlings.

Digital technology opportunities: Digital sharing capabilities.

Homework and extension opportunities: Encourage students to plant a free at home.