1st

Our program provides first graders with an in-class lesson in preparation for one 5 hour field trip. Both the in-class and field trip activities are based on the ecosystems and inhabitants located within Mt. Pisgah Arboretum. First grade focuses on the inner workings of the rare Oak Savanna. Our in-class lesson puts special emphasis on the Oregon white oak tree and the species that dwell within it. We build conceptual connections between all species that use the Oregon white oak tree as a habitat, building on how they interact with each other. Included are concepts from soil and tree dwelling insects, tree anatomy, plant relationships (i.e. lichen, moss and epiphytes) and an introduction to local plant pollination. Our service learning project introduces students to the world of restoration work through work in Mt. Pisgah’s Wildflower Garden. Students learn about native and non-native species, while getting their hands dirty weeding non-native shining geranium and planting native wildflowers.

 Curriculum

 

In-Class
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZEGdiWdmUYcsygjOZ_DxCF8qrGv56CrBZYP2BYXQK5s/edit?usp=sharing
In class, we introduce our students to the idea of becoming explorers, using a visual representation of an Oregon white oak tree to introduce new vocabulary words, we encourage them to write and draw about the new concepts they are learning. A big focus in the classroom is getting students excited about their upcoming fieldtrip!
Field Trip
https://docs.google.com/document/d/104ebDni1CJnbBaOtcqDYgVIA9ioUbxop6ccyPNTQrwY/edit?usp=sharing
Entering the field, our first graders immediately put on their explorer caps, gearing up for a day full of observations and explorations through the Oak Savanna. From getting up close and personal with insects, and learning all about the algal and fungal relationship of lichen; our students see first hand how species exists and interact within the habitat. To end, the students get their hands dirty restoring native wildflowers.