This environmental unit is one of a series designed for integration within an existing curriculum. The unit is self-contained and requires minimal teacher preparation. The philosophy of the units is based on an experience-oriented process that encourages self-paced independent student work. The purpose of this unit is to familiarize students with the structural organization, or pattern, of natural objects. Specifically, the students study the structure of tree or shrub brances that they have collected. Students exchange branches and keep their data recorded in a branch booklet. The duplicating masters for the booklet are included in the materials. After the students have studied a variety of branches, they try to reconstruct a branch that has been divided into the parts of a plant puzzle. Additional activities include counting annual rings of trees, observing buds, and rooting branches. The activities are geared for students in grades 1-6. A list of materials needed, directions, and background information are included for the teacher. (MA)