Climbing a Redwood Tree Videos
TEACHER: This video tells the story of how the tallest tree in the world was discovered in Redwood National Park, and how the scientists were able to climb it for the first time. How do you think the scientists were able to measure such a tall tree?
STUDENTS: with a tape measure, a ruler, a piece of string, climb the tree, use a helicopter, etc.
Those are all good guesses. Let's watch the video closely and see if we can find out.
Note to Teachers: There are two parts to this video. In the second video, the scientist uses language that may be seen as inappropriate for your classroom. Please preview the video and decide what you would like to share with your students. You may also choose to mute the video from minute1:23-1:30.
STUDENTS: with a tape measure, a ruler, a piece of string, climb the tree, use a helicopter, etc.
Those are all good guesses. Let's watch the video closely and see if we can find out.
Note to Teachers: There are two parts to this video. In the second video, the scientist uses language that may be seen as inappropriate for your classroom. Please preview the video and decide what you would like to share with your students. You may also choose to mute the video from minute1:23-1:30.
How did the scientists get up in the tree?
They used ropes and climbed.
They had to string ropes in the tree and pull themselves high up into the branches. Once they were safely in the tree, what did the scientists use to measure it?
A long tape measure
They did use a long tape measure to find the height of the redwood tree. Why were they careful to make sure that they held the tape measure straight and tight when they lowered it down from the top of the tree?
The measurement wouldn't be correct if it was twisted or loose.
Just like when you measure things in class, it is always important that the measuring tool is held in one place and is straight. If the scientists moved their starting point, or let the measuring tape get caught on a branch or blow in the wind, it wouldn't be the correct measurement. I bet measuring a tree takes a lot of practice. Do you like to measure things? Would you like to be one of those scientists? Put your thumb up or down to show your feelings.
They used ropes and climbed.
They had to string ropes in the tree and pull themselves high up into the branches. Once they were safely in the tree, what did the scientists use to measure it?
A long tape measure
They did use a long tape measure to find the height of the redwood tree. Why were they careful to make sure that they held the tape measure straight and tight when they lowered it down from the top of the tree?
The measurement wouldn't be correct if it was twisted or loose.
Just like when you measure things in class, it is always important that the measuring tool is held in one place and is straight. If the scientists moved their starting point, or let the measuring tape get caught on a branch or blow in the wind, it wouldn't be the correct measurement. I bet measuring a tree takes a lot of practice. Do you like to measure things? Would you like to be one of those scientists? Put your thumb up or down to show your feelings.