Explore the wonder of trees through hands-on observations! Students will gain awareness of trees, their functions, and the magic of photosynthesis. We will also cover the differences between deciduous and coniferous trees. (1 hour)

Students benefit from guided observation of nature. Their curiosity about everything around them is evident, and their interest in nature is keen. This nature hike is designed to enhance students’ awareness of the five senses and how they can be used to gather information about our natural world. (1 hour)

Next Generation Science Standards:

Kindergarten

• ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems

1st grade

• LS1.D: Information Processing

This program is designed to engage young children’s fascination and curiosity about animals and where they live in the wild. We will focus on the four necessary elements that animals need for a healthy habitat: food, water, shelter, and space. Students will explore and compare habitats through observation skills and
a guided hike. (1 hour)

Next Generation Science Standards:

1st grade

• LS1.B: Growth and Development of Organisms

2nd grade

• LS1.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
• LS4.D: Biodiversity and Humans

3rd grade

• LS2.C: Ecosystem Dynamics, Functioning, and Resilience
• LS4.C: Adaptation
• LS4.D: Biodiversity and Humans

Explore the world of insects, bugs, spiders, millipedes, centipedes, and crustaceans by collecting and examining various invertebrates during this active hike. Students are provided sweep nets and bug jars as they are guided on a hunt for insects and other similar creatures. As a group, students will share discoveries and discuss adaptations and unique habits of many-legged critters. Discussion topics include habitats, insects’ comparisons to non-insects, and safe collection techniques for both creatures and students. (1 hour)

Next Generation Science Standards:

1st grade

• LS1.A: Structure and Function
• LS1.D: Information Processing

2nd grade

• LS4.D: Biodiversity and Humans

3rd grade

• LS2.D: Social Interactions and Group Behavior
• LS3.B: Variation of Traits

This program focuses mainly on the importance of plants and their parts and functions. We will also take a closer look at the adaptations of plants and methods of seed dispersal. (1 hour)

Next Generation Science Standards:

3rd grade

• LS1.B: Growth and Development of Organisms
• LS2.C: Ecosystem Dynamics, Functioning, and Resilience

4th grade

• LS1.A: Structure and Function
• ESS2.E: Biogeology

Through identifying common wildflowers and spring plants, students learn the parts of a flower and their functions. We will also explore how plants use different characteristics to achieve pollination. Field guides and journals may
also be provided to improve observation and interpretation. (1 hour)

Next Generation Science Standards

3rd grade

• LS1.B: Growth and Development of Organisms
• LS3.A: Inheritance of Traits
• LS4.C: Adaptation

4th grade

• LS1.A: Structure and Function
• ESS2.A: Earth Materials and Systems
• LS4.C: Adaptation (3rd Grade Review)
• LS1.B: Growth and Development of Organisms (3rd Grade Review)

5th grade

• LS1.C: Organization for Matter and Energy Flow in Organisms
• ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems
• LS1.A: Structure and Function (4th Grade Review)

Roll over logs and meet vitally essential members of the ecosystem—the decomposers! Learn more about the variety of critters whose job it is to transform decaying material into rich soil. A sketching activity is included to facilitate closer observation. (1 hour)

Next Generation Science Standards:

3rd grade

• LS4.D: Biodiversity and Humans
• LS4.C: Adaptation

4th grade

• LS1.D: Information Processing
• ESS2.E: Biogeology

5th grade

• LS2.A: Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
• LS2.B: Cycles of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems
• ESS3.C: Human Impacts on Earth Systems

Using reference guides and field equipment, students will have the opportunity to collect and identify aquatic insects. Through careful observation, we will gain an appreciation for the diversity of life found in freshwater. Sketching and discussion will help students better understand animal adaptations and how aquatic life determines waterquality. (1.5 hours)

Next Generation Science Standards:

4th grade

• LS1.A: Structure and Function
• ESS2.A: Earth Materials and Systems

5th and 6th grade

• ESS2.C: The Roles of Water in Earth’s Surface Processes
• LS2.B: Cycles of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems

During this program, you will learn the basics of compass reading and tips for navigating the land confidently. This is an excellent addition to a unit on early explorers. (1.5 hours)

Next Generation Science Standards – Social Studies Standards 

6th grade

• G1.2.2: Explain why maps of the same place may vary, including Earth’s cultural perspectives and new knowledge based on science and modern technology