Rang 3 in Scoil na mBuachaillí, Clonakilty—a proud Green Flag school—have recently begun an exciting citizen science project as part of the GLOBE Ireland Climate Resilience - Temperature and Trees campaign.
As part of this hands-on learning experience, the class have identified a local oak tree that they'll be studying over the coming months. They’ve even given it a name — “Oaky”!
The campaign aims to educate students about the link between our built and natural environments, with a focus on how trees help regulate local temperatures. Through exploring the Urban Heat Island Effect, students will gain a better understanding of how materials used in buildings and school grounds can influence heat levels — and how trees can help cool things down.
During the project, students will:
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🌳 Measure the height and trunk size of “Oaky” to estimate how much carbon it stores
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🌡️ Monitor the temperature of different surfaces around the school to see how various materials affect local temperatures
The project runs from October to March, with tree measurements happening throughout and surface temperature checks taking place in October, December, and/or March.
This is a brilliant opportunity for Rang 3 to become young climate scientists, deepening their understanding of climate resilience while caring for the local environment. We’re very proud of their enthusiasm and curiosity!
