Students explore the art and science of tree bark at Little Britain 

Second graders at Little Britain Elementary School are exploring the fascinating patterns found in tree bark through a hands-on project called “Nature’s Patterns.”

This project is more than just a lesson about nature, it takes an interdisciplinary approach, helping students build research skills while integrating visual art, technology, music and even physical education — creating a comprehensive learning experience across all subject areas.

In the library, students work with librarian Kaitlin Wood to gather information from books and databases, exploring questions they developed in class, such as: How does tree bark grow? Why is bark hard? Does sap come from tree bark?

Second grader Ben Krogslund was especially intrigued by the intricacies of bark.

“I like the fact that trees have an inner and outer layer of bark,” he said. “The inside is actually called cork.”

In art class, teacher Julie Canzone guided students through a tree-rubbing project, helping them turn their observations into visual representations for their research presentations. Students also collaborated with technology specialist Jacquline Ellefson, who taught them how to create videos using Google Vid software.

Music teacher Devin Cassidy added another dimension by teaching the song “Round the Oak Tree,” showing students how nature inspires the arts. Students recorded their performance and included it in their final projects.

Students also strengthened their understanding of patterns during gym class through activities that combined movement and pattern recognition. In one exercise, students studied a hidden cup structure, described the pattern to teammates and worked together to rebuild it before completing a movement challenge.

Second grader Aria Bullard said one of her favorite parts was collaborating with her classmates to build the presentation.

“We all did it step-by-step to make sure we had everything we needed,” she said. “When it was time to add pictures, we tried to make the same connection – nature, beautiful things growing – but mostly tree bark.”

Second grade teacher Paige Yezarski praised the students for their excitement and willingness to embrace new ways of thinking.

“I am incredibly proud of our second graders for their dedication to the project,” she said. “What stood out most was how seamlessly students integrated technology to document their learning across multiple subjects, and they were thrilled to see their hard work come together in a professional and accessible Google Vid!”