FOREST DENDROLOGY: A STUDY GUIDE FOR FLORIDA FFA FORESTY TEAMS COMPETING IN THEIR DISTRICT AND STATE COMPETITIONS
Learning Module/Notebook
Alicia Lamborn
CED/EXTENSION AGENT III, HORTICULTURE
FLORIDA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION
MACCLENNY
Team Members:
Lamborn, A*1
-
CED/EXTENSION AGENT III, HORTICULTURE, UF/IFAS Extension Baker County, MACCLENNY, Florida, 320634433
Abstract
The purpose of this learning module is to support Florida Future Farmers of America (FFA) Forestry Team advisors and their students who may lack the knowledge and skills to identify trees. It was created to supplement classroom lessons and the experiential learning that takes place locally in the Baker County Extension Arboretum as a take-home study guide. The objectives of this learning module are to improve tree identification skills among middle and high school FFA forestry students, prepare teams for their district and state competitions, and improve individual scores (first, second, or third overall) in the forest dendrology section of the contest. I began this project as a series of fact sheets which were completed and compiled into a printed bound notebook to create the learning module in 2023. It was prepared using Canva, an online graphic design tool, using Canva images, original photos taken by myself, and original photos used with permission (primarily from Bugwood.org). I designed the layout and formatting, and edited all photos and images to remove backgrounds, enhance visibility of leaf characteristics, and clearly show relationships between leaf divisions and leaf arrangements. The learning module has been used by two local FFA advisors and 16 students to prepare for their district competition. Results include five students that placed individually (first, second, or third overall) in the forest dendrology section and one middle school team earning first place overall in the district competition to advance to the state contest. Additionally, advisors from two neighboring counties contacted me to request the study guide after seeing it at the district contest. Link to PDF: Forest Dendrology Study Guide or drive.google.com/file/d/1idfXE3ightB5kbt-Tdqiz0pCjGGt51gE/view?usp=sharing