How does a tree live, grow, and survive? Objective Students will be able to identify the basic parts of trees and understand how they help the tree to live and grow. Background This lesson plan can be found on the USFS website as part of the FireWorks Curriculum. The purpose of this activity is to familiarize students with the basic workings of a tree. Tree Parts Natural History Roots hold the tree in the ground. They branch underground and eventually form into small rootlets with miles of fine root hairs that take up water and minerals from the soil and bring it up to the tree for use. A full Duration: 60 Minutes Additional Standards: NGSS 4-LS1-1. Construct an argument that plants and animals have internal and external structures that function to support survival, growth, behavior, and reproduction. Essential Question How does a tree live, grow, and survive? Objective Students will be able to ide.