Everyone knows THE GIVING TREE by Shel
Silverstein. I used to read it to
my class and I would get weepy, while they would say, “Why did he have to get
old?” They just didn’t get the
aging thing, but it was a perfect time to talk about all the gifts that trees
give us.
Today I have a tree for you that you can
use in a multitude of ways in your classroom. All it takes is a lunch bag and a little creativity. Tear (or cut) four strips from the top
of the bag to the flap. Open. Squeeze the middle of the bag and
twist. There’s your tree and here
are some possibilities…
Orchard – What are some different
things that grow on trees?
Children can draw or cut fruits and nuts out of construction paper and
make their favorite tree.
Word Family Tree – Children choose a
rime and then write all the words they can think of that end with that sound.
Family Tree – Children write the names
of people in their family on the tree.
Spooky Tree – Twist the ends of each
strip to look like old limbs. You
can add bats or owls if you like.
Seasonal Tree – Children tear pieces
of orange, red, and yellow paper and glue to the strips to make an autumn tree.
Tear pink or white tissue paper into small
pieces and wad up. Glue to the
limbs to make a spring tree.
Paint the strips green to make a summer
tree. Add birds or butterflies.
Fall Centerpiece – Here’s an idea
for you if for a party this fall.
Use a large brown grocery bag to make a tree. Add autumn leaves to the base of the tree or hang Halloween
ornaments on the tree.
