The Plan
In this project-based learning deep dive, middle school students embarked on an exploration of "Witness Trees," ancient sentinels of history that offer a living link to significant past events. Combining biology and history, the kids studied the fascinating flora of historic landscapes while unraveling the stories these enduring trees silently witnessed over the centuries.
The Result: Our Exhibition of Learning
Witness Trees have stood the test of time, silently observing the unfolding of history's most pivotal moments. These ancient sentinels have witnessed historical events, providing a unique perspective on our past. They are not just trees; they are living archives, recording the passage of time in their rings and standing as monuments to the events they have witnessed.
In this exhibition, we were proud to present a selection of 13 extraordinary Witness Trees from four different continents. Each tree tells a unique story, connecting us to different cultural and historical events. Trees that have seen revolutions and wars, the birth of a religion, the introduction of gravity and so many other pivotal historic or cultural events. These trees represent a living bridge between the past and the present.
Our Selected Witness Trees
Major Oak - Gettysburg Honey Locust - Sycamore Gap - Hundred Horse Chestnut - 9/11 Survivor Tree - Big Tree of Rockport - Cotton Tree of Sierra Leone - Flower of Kent Apple - Anne Frank Chestnut - Hibaku Jumoku - Luna The Redwood - The Mahabodhi - Liberty Elm
Exhibition Highlights:
We thank the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County for their financial assistance to help make this experience possible. Our project based learning budget was significantly increased through the award of a GoTeach Classroom Grant.
In this exhibition, we were proud to present a selection of 13 extraordinary Witness Trees from four different continents. Each tree tells a unique story, connecting us to different cultural and historical events. Trees that have seen revolutions and wars, the birth of a religion, the introduction of gravity and so many other pivotal historic or cultural events. These trees represent a living bridge between the past and the present.
Our Selected Witness Trees
Major Oak - Gettysburg Honey Locust - Sycamore Gap - Hundred Horse Chestnut - 9/11 Survivor Tree - Big Tree of Rockport - Cotton Tree of Sierra Leone - Flower of Kent Apple - Anne Frank Chestnut - Hibaku Jumoku - Luna The Redwood - The Mahabodhi - Liberty Elm
Exhibition Highlights:
- Learn about the historical or cultural events each tree has witnessed.
- Understand the importance of these trees in various cultures.
- Learn about the botany of each species of selected trees.
- Discover how these trees are being protected for future generations.
- Hear from our students as they share their insights and learnings.
We thank the Education Foundation of Palm Beach County for their financial assistance to help make this experience possible. Our project based learning budget was significantly increased through the award of a GoTeach Classroom Grant.
