2nd

Our program provides second graders with an in-class lesson followed by one five-hour field trip. Both the in-class lesson and field trip are designed to educate the students on the wildlife, ecosystems and habitats located within Mt. Pisgah Arboretum, with an overall focus on the Douglas-fir habitat. The in-class lesson emphasizes the creatures who inhabit the Douglas-fir forest, explaining the relationship between predators and prey. Connections are made between the insects, amphibians and reptiles of the area through a relay game. Our field trip activities share concepts from soil dwelling creatures and aeration, root systems, tree anatomy, creatures living within the tree, and decomposition – providing knowledge of ecosystem functions. By building habitat hotels, the students utilize the skills and knowledge learned throughout the lesson and field trip in a hands-on restoration activity, encouraging a sense of responsibility and connection to the natural world.

 

 

 Curriculum

 


In-Class Lesson
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13JTyMHXFqp1nRWJuPHOMrNHtJo9udbyEtDOKeltHWuI/edit?usp=sharing
We begin our lesson by introducing the students to the species they may find out at Mount Pisgah. Using these, we explain concepts of camouflage and adaptation while connecting to the different types of habitats within the Douglas-fir forest. We then lead a relay race that gives the students a chance to act out predator prey relations that helps them fully grasp how camouflage is used.

Field Trip
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lxO3HtOhGblUJjtFTTJakCRHsICb9IXBB1PBhEOXVO8/edit?usp=sharing
Students go on an adventure in the Douglas-fir forest while learning about the insects, amphibians and reptiles in three types of habitat. Through hands-on activities, students learn about how yearly water and nutrient levels impact tree growth. We then engage in creating a habitat hotel while discussing the importance of restoring natural spaces.