Trestle Tree
Trestle Tree (Whittle Apparatus) consists of several
components and is creatively assembled daily, in a variety of shapes resembling
a cross between gymnastics apparatus and an indoor playscape. The components of the Trestle Tree include:
trestles of various heights, balance beams and boards of assorted widths,
bridges, ladders, bars, cargo nets, rope elements, zip lines, zap lines and
mats. As students develop skills, the Trestle Tree is modified to allow the
students to practice the following: jumping, landing, balancing, motor
planning, creative movement and physical fitness. Students work on problem solving, risk
taking, creativity, movement exploration and developing self-esteem.
The Trestle Tree begins “low and slow” with simple challenges
that progressively extend the challenge by elevating the heights of the components
and changing the configuration of the Trestle Tree. These changes occur as the students’
progress through the grade levels as well as within each year’s unit of study.
The objectives for the Trestle Tree are:
Body
Muscular Strength
Muscular Endurance
Balance
Brain
Problem Solving
Creativity
Overcoming Fears
Cooperation
Share ideas and space with others
Help others become successful
The safety rules for the Trestle Tree are:
Climb from section to section to travel. No walking around on the mats.
Always land safely on two feet and get on where you came off.
Never let go of the equipment until you are safe, your feet
are on the mats or you are hanging with control.
Go slowly and think about what you are doing. FOCUS!
Trestle Tree challenges:
Can you get on the equipment?
How far across can you climb?
Can you go further each time you climb?
Can you create different ways of moving each time?
How many different sections can you successfully climb across?
If it feels easy, can you make it more challenging?
If it feels scary, can you make it easier?
Can you create different ways of moving while cooperating with others?
