Point Quarter

In groups of four, our class partook in a point quarter sampling to determine the different tree varieties on Presque Isle, as well as their importance to the ecosystem.  Professor Lowe set each group up in the forest, in parallel sections, so ensure that no groups would cross paths or use the same trees as one another.  Every 30 meters until we had  (6 data points total) off of the path and into the woods, we made a grid of four quadrants.  One person stood in the middle of the quadrants, and each tree in each quadrant that was closest to the middle (where the person stood) were the 4 trees for that point that we collected data for.

For each tree, we measured the distance to the center where the quadrants met and Samm stood, we recorded the type of tree being examined, and measured the circumference of the tree at breast height.  With this data we gathered from the particular area of the park in which my group was, we learned that sugar maples were the dominant and most important tree species.  Out of the 24 trees sampled, 21 were sugar maples.  This was a very neat experience because not only does it teach participants about what kinds of species are in their surroundings, or make up a particular ecosystem, but because it is the technique used by "real" ecologists to determine this information.  It is simple enough to do with elementary school students, with no simplifications necessary for older students.  This is a way for students to do something that professionals do...how cool! It's important to teach students how the curriculum they're learning applies to real life, and how it can be used to further their knowledge.