Park Happenings

Event Details

Celebrate the beauty of autumn while discovering the science behind Tennessee's colorful forests! Through hands-on investigations, leaf identification, and an outdoor exploration, homeschool students will learn why leaves change color, how trees prepare for winter, and the important role seasonal changes play in our natural world.

Designed for 3rd Grade

Academic Standard: 3.ESS2.2

Students will:

• Discuss the four seasons and how changes in daylight and temperature affect plants.
• Observe and compare a variety of native Tennessee leaves by shape, color, and texture.
• Investigate the role of chlorophyll and discover why yellow, orange, and red pigments become visible in the fall.
• Learn the difference between deciduous and evergreen trees.
• Participate in a guided leaf identification activity using common Tennessee tree species.
• Complete a leaf rubbing or leaf chromatography activity to explore pigments found in leaves.
• Take a short nature walk to identify signs of autumn and collect observations.

Homeschool students must be accompanied by an adult. Space is limited to 15 homeschool students. Please register only participating homeschool students.