Festive Hands-on Learning - The Christmas Tree

Last week during their assembly time students were able to learn more about one of the most iconic symbols of the holiday season - The Christmas Tree!

Students learned some of the history behind why we have Christmas trees. Do you know what was first used in history to decorate fir trees at Christmas time? Apples! And do you know what Christmas trees were first called over 1,000 years ago? Paradise Trees!

Students also learned ways

to identify the different tree species most commonly used for Christmas trees. Not only did they learn some of their characteristics, but they also got to experience the differences first hand while examining four different kinds of trees.

Thanks to our friends at Fir Ever Green Tree Farm we were able to provide students with branches from four of the most common trees grown in Alberta. They were able to touch, smell and identify up close the differences and similarities between the Balsam Fir, White Spruce, Blue Spruce and Pine.

Here are some of the quick, key points you can use to identify the tree species. Spruce - Prickly needles that roll between your fingers Fir - Soft flat needles that don't roll Pine - Long soft needles that are grouped

We are excited to have some Christmas tree experts walking our hallways just in time for the holiday season!